Black Catholic History Walking Tour, Cincinnati

In honor of Black Catholic History Month, join Sacred Heritage Tours on Saturday, November 14, from 9–11 AM for a special walking tour through Cincinnati’s historic West End, once home to a thriving community of Black Catholics.

We will begin at St. Joseph Church on Ezzard Charles Drive, the last remaining Catholic parish in the neighborhood, where we’ll step inside to learn about its enduring legacy. From there, we’ll walk the streets of the West End to uncover the stories of the many churches, schools, and institutions that once shaped the lives of generations—including St. Edward and St. Ann Churches, Madonna High School, DePorres High School, and St. Mary Hospital.

Along the way, we’ll reflect on the resilience, faith, and contributions of Black Catholics whose history in Cincinnati deserves to be remembered and celebrated.

We’re especially excited to be joined by two special guests with deep personal connections to the West End!

LaVerne Summerlin, University of Cincinnati professor, former West End resident, and author of Gems of Cincinnati’s West End: Black Children and Catholic Missionaries, 1940–1970, will serve as a special co-guide, sharing personal memories and historical insights into this remarkable community.

Toilynn O’Neal Turner, a former student of St. Joseph School and founder and CEO of the Robert O’Neal Multicultural Arts Center (ROMAC), will also join us. Toilynn is leading the effort to restore the historic Regal Theater, transforming this beloved West End landmark into a vibrant center celebrating African American art, culture, and history. She’ll share her personal connection to the neighborhood and the exciting work underway to preserve one of its treasured landmarks.

Together, their stories will help bring the West End’s past and present to life, reminding us why preserving and sharing this history matters.

Join us for this special opportunity to explore, remember, and celebrate Cincinnati’s Black Catholic heritage!