4. Postcard from East Austin - “Bygones and Barbecue”

In a fast-changing city, no neighborhood has undergone a greater transformation than Austin's East Side. Historically African-American, and once neglected, today espresso bars have replaced convenience stores and boutique hotels tower over long vacant lots. But what is left of what had been, and what do those who grew up here feel about all of this? In this episode, we'll take a trip to the other side of I-35 to ask questions like these. Along the way we'll hear some raw, unfiltered answers, get a history lesson at The Carver Museum, and revisit a few memories. We'll also see what's cooking at Sam's BBQ, and chat with owner Brian Mays who, acting on principle, said no to a five-million-dollar buyout in order to keep his pit running.  UPDATE- Please note that a source used for this episode misidentified Ben Wash as the original builder of the property at 900 E. 11th Street. It was, in fact, initially built in 1964, and housed a number of establishments prior to the opening of Ben’s Long Branch. We apologize for this error. Nevertheless, Mr. Wash remains the building's longest serving tenant.