Biddleville (Charlotte neighborhood)

Biddleville is a historic neighborhood located in Charlotte, North Carolina. Founded in 1871, it is one of the oldest historically Black neighborhoods in the city. Its origins are directly tied to Johnson C. Smith University, originally known as Biddle University, which was established to educate formerly enslaved people.

The neighborhood's name is derived from Major Henry J. Biddle, a Union Army officer who, along with his wife, donated a significant sum of money to the Presbyterian Church to found the university. Over time, the area surrounding the university developed into a thriving residential community for African American professionals, educators, business owners, and clergy.

Biddleville played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement in Charlotte, serving as a center for activism and community organizing. Many residents were involved in advocating for equal rights and desegregation.

Architecturally, Biddleville features a variety of housing styles, reflecting its growth and evolution over the decades. Many homes are examples of Queen Anne, Craftsman, and other early 20th-century architectural styles.

In recent years, Biddleville has experienced redevelopment pressures, raising concerns about gentrification and the preservation of its historic character. Community efforts are underway to protect the neighborhood's cultural heritage and ensure its continued affordability for long-time residents. Biddleville is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the Biddleville Historic District.