The Harlem Renaissance would surely have happened without the presence of the socialite and philanthropist A’Lelia Walker. But there would have undoubtedly been fewer swell parties in gorgeous settings where high-quality liquor and high-quality conversation flowed and high achievers in the Black community congregated. And without A’Lelia there would likely have been far less of an impetus for chic Europeans and condescendingly curious members of Manhattan’s smart set to voyage above 110th Street (of all places) to see who was who and what was what at A’Lelia’s large, lavishly appointed home on West 136th Street.
“Wherever else one is invited or expected one must cancel all other plans if invited to A’Lelia’s,” a frequent guest noted. “She’s the Great Black Empress, She Who Must Be Obeyed.”
