Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight a true local treasure: Mahogany Tours, led by the dynamic historian Shermann “Dilla” Thomas.
Who is Shermann “Dilla” Thomas?
Shermann “Dilla” Thomas is more than just a historian; he’s a cultural ambassador for Chicago. Known for his engaging and informative TikTok videos, Dilla has become a beloved figure, educating millions about Chicago’s unique and diverse history in fun, digestible snippets.
His passion for sharing stories from Chicago’s past has earned him appearances on major platforms such as the Kelly Clarkson Show and NBC’s Today Show.
About Mahogany Tours
Founded in 2021, Chicago Mahogany Tours offers immersive and educational tours of Chicago’s neighborhoods, particularly those on the South and West Sides. These tours are not your typical city tours—they’re interactive history lessons that bring the past to life. Dilla’s encyclopedic knowledge and compelling storytelling make each tour an unforgettable experience.
Tour Highlights
Mahogany Tours takes you through iconic neighborhoods like Bronzeville, Pullman, North Lawndale, and Roseland. Each tour is customized, ensuring that visitors get a unique perspective every time. Highlights include:
• Bronzeville: Visit the historic Bronzeville neighborhood, home to the Great Migration’s cultural renaissance and significant landmarks such as the Victory Monument, which honors Black soldiers from World War I.
• Pullman: Explore the Pullman National Monument, a historic district that played a pivotal role in America’s labor movement.
• North Lawndale: Learn about the area’s rich history, including sites connected to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement.
Economic Impact
Dilla’s tours do more than educate—they invigorate the local economy. By bringing tourists into these neighborhoods, Mahogany Tours supports local businesses. For instance, the Soul Food Lounge in North Lawndale and Old Fashioned Donuts in Roseland have seen a surge in customers, thanks to the tours. This influx of business helps stabilize and grow these local enterprises, providing much-needed economic support to areas that have faced long-term disinvestment.
Join the Journey
Ready to explore the real Chicago? Mahogany Tours offers public, ticketed tours and also caters to schools and nonprofits with discounted or free tours. It’s a fantastic way to learn about Chicago’s past while supporting its present and future. For more information or to book a tour, visit the Chicago Mahogany Tours website.
Amer Goosby
