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West End History
Over the years, the West End of Louisville has always been home to many successful and thriving businesses including funeral homes, dry cleaners, beauty salons and barbershops, restaurants and more.
A Rich History:
Universal Chevrolet was the first auto dealership in Louisville. It was purchased and renamed to Bob Smith Chevrolet operated by Robert W. Smith at 2500 W Broadway in 1971. It was the third Chevy dealership in U.S. owned by an African American.
Shawnee Theater was founded at 3725 W. Broadway in 1925. Owned
and operated by Harry Zimmerman.
Allen Hotel was founded at 2516 W. Madison street in 1938. At 50 rooms, it was the largest racially friendly hotel in Louisville.
First Standard Bank was founded at 7th street in 1921. One of the first African American-owned bank in Kentucky. Operated by Wilson Lovett as the president.
Historic Broadway
Businesses
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