BUSINESS

Although Blacks in Champaign County have always experienced limited economic opportunities, an entrepreneurial spirit continued to surface, especially at the turn of the century and around World War II. The first decade has been described as the "period of industrial advancement," and as a result, Blacks entered into manufacturing jobs. World War II brought about more industrial and technological advancement, and also a shortage of available labor; thus Blacks were given a chance in jobs previously closed to them. Compared to the conditions that they had grown accustomed to, both of these eras were opportune times for Blacks to open businesses. Some Blacks were beginning to secure better paying jobs, resulting into more expendable income in Champaign County's Black communities.

Although the economic conditions of some Blacks improved during these periods, the overall economic development of Champaign County's Black communities was stagnant when compared to white communities. Thus, for Blacks who did own and operate businesses, the tenure was usually short or seasonal. Further, most of the businesses were run out homes or places with low overhead costs. For example, some Black entrepreneurs operated fruit and food stands in the summer while others operated corner stores, laundries, and barbershops out of their homes.

One example of a long lasting Black-owned business that started in the first third of the twentieth century was Van's Barber Shop. Started in 1937, Van's original owner, Mr. Van Thompson, remained actively involved in the barbershop well into the 1970's. Although he received only an eighth grade education and had no formal barber training, Mr. Thompson's shop prospered for many years in the basement of a building located at 29 Main Street.

Another Black owned business with a long tenure was Tinsley's Cleaners. Opening in 1951, Tinsley's Cleaners was owned and operated by Mr. And Mrs. Roscoe Tinsley. Some of the services offered were cleaning, pressing, and alterations. The cleaners also provided a pickup and delivery service to its customers. Tinsley's Cleaners was in business until it closed its doors in the early 1970s.

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