The Madam CJ Walker’s Beauty Shoppe Museum beckons visitors into the story of a remarkable woman who shattered glass ceilings. Nestled within a historic building that functioned as a Madam C.J. Walker beauty salon and housed the first radio station owned and programmed by African Americans, this museum is a testament to Walker’s indomitable spirit.  

Recognized as the first self-made Black female millionaire in America. Madam C.J. Walker embarked on her journey in Denver Colorado, in 1905 with just $1.05 in savings. Despite humble beginnings, her hair care products such as the Wonderful Hair Grower, and Vegetable Shampoo gained popularity, marking the turning point in her fortunes.  

Within the same building lies a homage to WERD studio—the first black-owned radio station. WERD began broadcasting on October 3, 1949, under the vision of Jesse B. Blayton, Sr., the first Black CPA in the U.S. operating from the “Sweet Auburn” district of Atlanta. The station catered to the city’s Black population, initially providing prayer, news, and gospel music. WERD played a critical role in the civil right movement, with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC headquartered in the same building.