Digital Archive: Angel’s Share Wines and Liquors

This is the storefront of Angel’s Share Wines and Liquors, the location that used to be the nightclub John’s Place in the 1980s. The structure does not appear new, and I would venture to guess that it is the same building as John’s Place, reworked for its new purpose. Its clever logo appears on the sign above the front entrance, a barrel with an angel’s wings and halo.

Digital Archive: Ordinary Liquor Store

This is a broad view of the interior of Angel’s Share Wines and Liquors. The cashier gives me a confused look as I take a picture of his rather ordinary establishment, before I explain to him our purpose for being there. Shelves behind the counter contain cigarettes and other tobacco products, and refrigerators line the back wall where the “BUD LIGHT” poster can be seen. There is also a second unmanned register; perhaps they have busier hours.

Digital Archive: Mural

This is the mural on the northern wall of the store. The image of a passionate black musician seems representative of historical African American musical culture. The singer’s dress and the waves of vibrant colors seem to allude to another musical era, and the art exudes innovation, creativity, and happiness.

Digital Archive: Premium Cigars

Upon entering Angel’s Share Wines and Liquors, there is this locked cabinet of various different “premium cigars.”

Digital Archive: Row Houses

Across S street from the northern exterior wall is a sequence of residential row houses that appear to be older and more reminiscent of Shaw’s housing in past decades.

Digital Archive: New Construction

Across 7th Street is the 7th Flats apartment building, in front of which is a bus stop and a stairwell down to the Shaw-Howard University Station. Built in 2013, the apartments are modern and chic, ostensibly marketing to young, hip population.

Digital Archive: Basement Staircase

This is the concrete staircase leading to the basement, which appears to be used for inventory storage. The conveyor belt offers a more efficient, easy way of moving heavy cases into the store’s main floor for sale.

Digital Archive: South Wall Courtyard

This is the southern wall of the building’s exterior, the left side if facing the entrance. The graffiti is less purposeful and does not take the form of a mural. The closed in plot of land appears to have no practical use.

css.php