A People's History of Kansas City

Kansas City’s champion cakewalker

By Julie Denesha,

Published August 14, 2024 at 3:00 AM CDT

Ways To Subscribe

The 19th-century American dance craze "the cakewalk" began as a form of resistance by enslaved Black people — a showy promenade concealing a mockery of slave owners. One of the most charismatic and famous cakewalking champions was Kansas City’s own Doc Brown. KCUR’s Julie Denesha reports on a modern movement to recognize Brown’s stamp on history.

This episode of A People's History of Kansas City was reported by Julie Denesha. It was produced and mixed by Mackenzie Martin and Celia Morton with editing by Luke X. Martin and Suzanne Hogan.

A People's History of Kansas City

Julie Denesha

As KCUR’s arts reporter, I use words, sounds and images to take readers on a journey behind the scenes and into the creative process. I want to introduce listeners to the local creators who enrich our thriving arts communities. I hope to strengthen the Kansas City scene and encourage a deeper appreciation for the arts. Contact me at julie@kcur.org.

See stories by Julie Denesha

Mackenzie Martin

As senior podcast producer for KCUR Studios and a host of A People’s History of Kansas City, I interview everyday people and dig through old newspaper articles to unearth stories of the visionaries and renegades who created this region. I focus on bringing the past to life, so we can all better understand the city we live in today. Email me at mackenzie@kcur.org.

See stories by Mackenzie Martin

Celia Morton

Celia Morton is the KCUR Studios intern for summer 2024. Email her at cmorton@kcur.org.

See stories by Celia Morton