Several students and teachers are taking part in an optional afterschool field trip Friday at 2 pm to Ben’s Chili Bowl. The trip, organized by DC History teacher Mr. Dumas, will include an interview with Vida Ali, the current owner and daughter of founders Ben & Virginia Ali, to discuss and learn more about the history of U Street. The restaurant is located at 1213 U Street NW, next to Lincoln Theatre and has been a meeting place for civil rights leaders throughout the neighborhood’s history since its founding in 1958. The restaurant has survived the tumult of the late 60’s race riots and the revitalization and gentrification of the U Street Corridor in the 90’s. Mr. Findler, who previously taught the American history and D.C. history courses, had also taken students to visit the historic site.
A Tasty Final Field Trip
