Waxie Maxie's Records & Tapes 1938 Mug

Back in 1938 Max Silverman opened a record store at 1836 7th Street in Washington, D.C. under the name Waxie Maxie Quality Music Co. Silverman's store was an instant hit as he stocked it with all the latest recordings as well as those from up-and-coming musicians, including many black artists, something that was still not very common at the time. Silverman began holding jam sessions and live radio broadcasts in the storefront's window, a spot that attracted teens and young adults to the store and became known as the Maxie's goldfish bowl. Silverman would eventually change the store's name to Waxie Maxie's and open over 30 locations throughout the Washington Metropolitan area.