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- calendar_today October 29, 2026
The Jewels: DC Girl Group Originating from Roosevelt High School
On October 29, Washington DC pays tribute to the influential 1960s R&B group, the Jewels, with a commemorative street renaming ceremony and a special tribute event. The Jewels originated at Theodore Roosevelt High School in 1958, when four students—Sandra Bears, Grace Ruffin, Margie Clarke, and Carrie Mingo—formed a singing group that would make their mark on America’s music scene. They found harmony in the school’s glee club, choir, and even in echoing hallways and bathrooms, which member Sandra Bears fondly recalls as perfect places for practicing their harmonies.
From the Impalas to the Jewels: A Brief History
The group initially called themselves the Impalas and later went by names such as the Renaults and the Four Jewels before settling on the Jewels. While still in high school, they managed to record their first release. By 1964, under their new name, they released the "Opportunity" song, an R&B record that showcased their blend of soul and harmonies. The track rose to No. 64 on the Billboard Hot 100 and stayed there for 12 weeks, bringing national attention to the group.
Collaboration with James Brown and Touring
As their reputation grew, the Jewels joined the legendary James Brown on tour, even backing him on several singles. Member Sandra Bears expressed awe at performing in iconic venues such as the Hollywood Bowl and Madison Square Garden, recalling the excitement and respect from those audiences. Martha High (formerly Martha Harvin) joined the group after Carrie Mingo’s departure, later becoming a longtime backup singer for Brown. Bears described performing with Brown as an educational experience with high standards and discipline, and reflected on their encounters with racism while touring in the South.
Bo Diddley’s Influence and Musical Development
After school, Bears, Ruffin, and Mingo would travel by bus to rock legend Bo Diddley’s studio in his Rhode Island Avenue basement to record songs and provide backup vocals for his track “Bo Diddley Is a Lover.” Bears noted that Diddley admired the group’s deeper harmonies, which distinguished them from the higher-pitched sound typical of many girl groups of the time.
Street Renaming and Tribute Event Details
On Thursday, October 29, the city will unveil a sign reading "The Jewels Way" on 13th Street NW, outside Theodore Roosevelt High School, in honor of the group. A tribute event featuring music, speakers, and a film screening will take place inside the school’s auditorium. The ceremony will be led by Ward 4 Councilmember Janeese Lewis George, who proposed the legislation to the DC Council in June 2025. The law was signed by Mayor Muriel Bowser, passed through Council and Congressional review, and became official on July 18, 2026. Former DC mayor Sharon Pratt, who attended Roosevelt High alongside the Jewels, is among the guest speakers.
Honoring the Jewels’ Legacy
Sandra Bears, now 82, expressed her excitement about the tribute, describing it as “a dream come true.” She will be joined by fellow members Grace Ruffin and Carrie Mingo. The family of the late Margie Clarke, who passed away in 2019 after a solo career as Little Margie, will also attend. Martha High, currently residing in Belgium and unable to attend in person, submitted a video tribute. The event is organized with the help of filmmaker Beverly Lindsay-Johnson, director of the 2012 documentary The Jewels: The Divas of DC Doo-Wop, who was instrumental in securing the street renaming and is coordinating the tribute program.
The sign unveiling will commence at 3:30 p.m. on 13th Street NW between Upshur and Allison Streets. The tribute event, which includes a documentary screening, performances, and speakers, will begin at 4 p.m. in the school auditorium. Attendance is free, but reservations are recommended.
Source: washingtoncitypaper.com.
