One of the nation’s oldest Black-owned flower shops is in DC

William and Winnifred Lee opened Lee’s Flower Shop in the district known in the 1940s as “Black Broadway,” an area known for Black-owned businesses, arts and entertainment. After the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Winnifred and her son slept in the shop to protect their business during the ensuing riots.

Today, the business is run by the original owner’s granddaughters. They’ve kept the shop relevant with things like Flower Power Happy Hour, while remaining true to its roots. The community has helped Lee’s Flower Shop stand strong through recent years, and the business looks forward to continued growth.

– Rebecca Hastings, The 100 Companies