Our Altadena

Altadena is a small unincorporated community in Los Angeles County, California nestled at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains.  While Altadena is often overshadowed by its larger neighbor, Pasadena, it has a distinct identity shaped by its history, geography, and culture.  Among its many defining characteristics is its rich African American history, which has contributed significantly to the fabric of the community.

Historically, African Americans have been an integral part of Altadena since its early days, particularly during the 20th century.  Following the Great Migration, when African Americans moved westward from the South in search of better opportunities, many settled in Altadena.  The community, with its proximity to Los Angeles and its affordable housing compared to other areas, became a popular destination for Black families. 

In particular during the 1920’s and 1930’s, African Americans found refuge in Altadena, where they could build their own neighborhoods and institutions in relative peace, far from the racial tensions of other parts of Los Angeles.

Among those pioneering families is my family that now includes four generations residing in Altadena.  My great grandfather Los Angeles pioneer Charles C. Flint married Olivia Wallace from Altadena in 1883.  The Wallace family included in its bloodline Chinese who came with the railroad.  One of Southern California’s first Black pharmacists was from this family.  Lottie Wallace a renown now little known Black dance choreographer to many Hollywood stars married Hollywood Actor Al Ghoser, who often played the father of actress Dorothy Lamour in several of her famed Island movies.  Lottie was close friends and travel partner with Black French diva Josephine Baker.  They owned property together in Spain.  Philip Hurlic, a Wallace grandson, was a notable actor who played “Tom Sawyer’s” Black friend in Hollywood movies and in “The LIttle Rascals.”

My aunt Mahasin Shaheed moved to Altadena living just off Lake boulevard becoming a member of Altadenas growing Muslim population. Mahasin owned and operated a thriving import and export business in South Central Los Angeles rubbing shoulders with Maxine Waters, Cicely Tyson and sharing conversation with Stevie Wonder among many celebrities in her social milieu.  Her nephew is my brother, Dr. Stephen Greene was the fourth generation to move to Altadena in 2013 when he married his wife Bonnie who grew up in the Altadena community from birth. Dr Greene owns and operates a host of public health offices throughout greater Los Angeles and adjacent communities. Among the notable publicly well known celebrities are  Actor Sidney Poitier, Author Octavia Butler, Black Panther Leroy Eldridge Cleaver and Danny Bakewell’s mother who have resided in the Altadena community.  It would be remiss not to mention that Civil War Activist John Brown sent his son to Altadena to escape those who would defame him.

One of the key aspects of the African American experience in Altadena was the creation of a close-knit, thriving community. African American families established churches, masjids, schools, and social organizations that provided support and fostered a sense of belonging.  The local churches, such as the Altadena Baptist Church, have been central to the community’s social and cultural life, serving as places of worship and as a venue for social activism. These institutions helped preserve Black Culture and identity during times of discrimination and economic hardships.

Altadena also became known for its cultural contributions.  The community was home to many notable African American artists, musicians, and intellectuals.  The Altadena public library and local cultural centers often hosted events that celebrated Black History, arts, and culture.  In the mid-20th century, Altadena was home to several prominent African American professionals, from doctors, teachers and business owners and civic leaders.  These individuals contributed to the growth of the area while challenging racial stereotypes and creating spaces for Black success and influence.

Despite facing the challenges of segregation and discrimination, Altadena’s African American residents have continually worked toward self-improvement and community development. Over time the area became a symbol of resilience, as Black households worked to build stable, thriving households while also combating systemic inequalities.  They fought for better schools, fair housing policies, and greater representation in local government.

Black Altadena’s history is one of perseverance, cultural richness, and community building.  It stands as a testament to the resilience of African American families who, despite facing adversity, created a space in which they could thrive.  Their story is an essential part of the broader narrative of Black migration and success in America, and Altdadena continues to honor that legacy.  From the ashes of the deviation of the recent fires that destroyed so much of this historic community a new hope of rebuilding and continued contributions is a promise worth waiting for.

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