Thomas Downing was the epitome of success. The son of enslaved parents, he used his knowledge of oyster harvesting to become one of the richest men in New York – the oyster capital of the world! But there were oyster houses everywhere in the city. What made his restaurant so successful?
Rather than serve oysters in brothels or street side stalls, Downing served his oysters in an upscale environment. Downing’s oysters were considered fine dining in reputable environments, unlike his competitors. But he was hiding a powerful secret.
Though Downing himself was Black, he refused to serve Black customers. Any Black person that came to his doors was turned away! But all was not as it seemed.
Despite the appearance of segregation, his restaurant’s basement was actually a stop on the Underground Railroad! While white customers thought they were dining in an all-white establishment, they were actually funding Black freedom.
Downing also used his money to start Black schools, fight against anti-Black laws, and fund Black businesses.
Downing knew the horrors of enslavement and the power that came with being rich, and used his entrepreneurial influence to help the Black community. His creativity and entrepreneurial drive brought him wealth – but more importantly, allowed him to support his people.