Herman Roberts (Finding Aid)

Herman Roberts

1924 -

Favorite Color: Blue

Favorite Food: meat and potatoes

Favorite Time of Year: Autumn

Interview Length: 172 minutes

Interview Date(s): July 24, 2002

Interview Location(s): Chicago, Illinois

Abstract

Herman Roberts describes his family background, tracing back the roots on his mother's and father's sides of the family, and describing his siblings. Roberts recalls growing up and going to school in Oklahoma, during the Great Depression Dust Bowl days. Roberts then describes his family's move to Chicago, contrasting his new neighborhood with his rural Oklahoma town. Roberts also names some of his influences and mentors as a child. Herman Roberts describes the start of his long career as an entrepreneur, selling newspapers on the South Side of Chicago. Roberts then explains how he got into the taxicab business, which eventually led to him driving taxis at the age of fifteen. Throughout, Roberts discusses his strategies for succeeding in business. Roberts also describes the climate of the country at the outbreak of World War II, as well as his own time in the Army. Herman Roberts, after recalling his time spent in the Army, gives a detailed description of his early success in the business world. He discusses the start of his own cab company, and how he used that to enter the nightclub business, opening the famous Roberts Show Club on Chicago's South Side. Roberts also shares his philosophies and strategies for success in business. Herman Roberts discusses his venture into the hospitality business, describing the success of his Roberts Motel chain in Chicago, particularly the 500 Room at Roberts Motel No. 6. Roberts discusses some of the problems inherent in the hotel business, including illegal activity by customers. Roberts also discusses his business relationship with disc jockey Marty Faye and considers the factors leading to success for black businesses. Herman Roberts shares his opinions regarding the changing business landscape, as more corporations are forcing smaller businesses to fold. He also discusses how integration impacted black businesses negatively. Roberts shares some humorous stories from his years of interaction with celebrities and entertainers. He then reflects on his career and discusses his current business situation. Herman Roberts shares some more humorous stories from his encounters with celebrities. He considers the future of black businesses and addresses the problems facing black businesses today. Roberts then considers his legacy and how he would like to be remembered. Roberts also describes photos depicting his life, family, and career. Herman Roberts describes a series of photos depicting his life, family, and career.

72 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)