Ep. 04 Hotel McGuire Thermometer
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Ep. 04 Hotel McGuire Thermometer
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About this listen
Today’s story starts with... a thermometer. Yep, you heard that right. But trust us, this small wooden thermometer on display in our “Living Legacies” exhibit opens the door to a fascinating chapter in Fredericksburg’s history.
In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of Dr. Webster Lee Harris—dentist, entrepreneur, and community leader—whose impact shaped the city’s Black community in powerful ways. We’ll journey through the story of the Hotel McGuire, a Green Book-listed safe haven for Black travelers during segregation and hear how this resilient building and its visionary founder left a lasting mark on Fredericksburg.
From horse-and-buggy dentistry to affordable housing andthriving Black businesses, this is a story of resilience, innovation, and community impact—told through one unassuming artifact.
Music Credit: “Phantom Waltz Dance” by Stocktune, used with permission.