Hidden History: The End of the 15th Ward

SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) - In this award-winning documentary, Jennifer Sanders takes a journey back to the 15th Ward, an area just east and south of Downtown Syracuse, New York. During the 1950's, the 15th Ward was the heart of the African-American community. After urban renewal and the construction of Interstate 81, the small neighborhood was decimated. The 15th Ward is now home to Interstate 81 and Upstate Medical University. This documentary explores the emotional stories of the families who were affected by the decimation of the 15th Ward.
#syracuse #15thward #history #documentary #newyork #story #race #equality #community #highway

[@jasonscharf2084]

Incredible documentary Jennifer and Channel 9 team. I knew a little about the 15th Ward, but learned so much more watching this. Amazing photographs and recollections of guests interviewed. Thank you!!!

[@LibraClassic]

Wow. I grew up down there in Pioneer Homes in the late 70s - early 80s. I remember we lived on the corner of McBride & Monroe directly behind the on ramp to 81 - I could see it out of my kitchen window. I had no idea about the how far back the history of the neighborhood went. This is truly heartbreaking...

[@blenderhill6390]

Very well done. Thank you.

[@MsJenniferDSanders]

Thank you so much. It was such an honor to hear and share their stories.

[@RandolphJohnson]

Hi Jennifer...I found this just today. Excellent ! I saw you had a picture of my grandfather Herbert Johnson, William Johnson's son @ Dunbar Camp. This is helping me with more of my family research! Thank you!!

[@MsJenniferDSanders]

Hello there! Wow, what a legacy your family has. Thanks so much for watching and commenting. Good luck with your family research!

[@RandolphJohnson]

@@MsJenniferDSanders Great to hear from you! You're very welcome I was surprised when my Dad told me you moved to Texas..my Mom left Syracuse to visit my sister in North Houston in 2017 and is still there! lol

[@firmnstrongfitness7637]

Just Wow. I had no idea of this history. Thanks for sharing.

[@Nate-is7cd]

SMH why would they build a terrible bridge next to family’s wish they knew that makes people sick I’m disgusted

[@specialtreasure2200]

Thank you Jennifer. I grew up watching you every morning. I meet you at my high school IN 2018. I really appreciate you digging into syracuse and teaching us syracuse history

[@MsJenniferDSanders]

Thank you so much! That means more than you know!! I hope you are doing well - keep soaring!!

[@OGKidMelee]

Yes l am here cuz my school had to watch it xD

[@aztiff]

My mother always spoke of the 15th ward when we were kids. That and urban renewal and "jew town." How the city was never the same after it was torn down.

[@benjahminsiddeeq2843]

My Grandmother and My uncle always talked about how 81 shut down the black community in the 60’s

[@MsJenniferDSanders]

Thank you for watching and thank you for the historical context provided by your family.