Historic Green Book Inn

African-American singers and musicians once toured the country on a beltway that connected a string of clubs specializing in R&B and soul. The pathway was called the Chitlin’ Circuit, after the famed African American dish rooted in Southern cultural heritage, similar to the artists and their music. Notable stops along the Chitlin Circuit included The Howard Theater in DC, The Royal Peacock in Atlanta, and The Ritz here in Greensboro. Numerous artists who played the Chitlin Circuit stayed at The Historic Magnolia House before their shows. Neighbors from around Gorrell Street share memories of James Brown playing ball with the kids, Joe Tex signing autographs, and numerous others partying with the locals. To learn more about the Chitlin Circuit, view our interactive map below. Download our activity sheet to get an authentic feel for the music that brought the soul to The Historic Magnolia House.