On this day in Black history: ’Porgy and Bess’ opens on Broadway, first Black school in New York City and more

On this day in Black history, February 28:

— In 1704, Frenchman Elias Neau established the first school open to Black people in New York City, which originally began as visits to homes of the enslaved community. 

— In 1943, renowned musical Porgy and Bess opened on Broadway with Anne Brown and Todd Duncan in starring roles. The entire cast consisted of classically trained Black singers. 

— In 1984, Michael Jackson took home eight Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year for “Beat It” and Album of the Year for Thriller. 

— Happy birthday to Charles “Bubba” Smith, Tasha and Sidra Smith, Rae Dawn Chong, Tabatha “Dreamdoll” Robinson, Kehinde Wiley and Ainsley Harriott.