African American Museum of Nassau County facts for kids
The "Joysetta and Julius Pearse African American Museum of Nassau County" is a special place where you can learn about the amazing history and culture of African Americans. It was renamed on May 18, 2021, to honor its long-time directors, Joysetta and Julius Pearse. This museum, also known as the African American Museum of Nassau County, first opened its doors in 1970.
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About the Museum
The museum is all about showing the incredible work of African American artists, both from the local area and across the country. It's located in Hempstead, New York, at 110 North Franklin Street. The museum is managed by Nassau County's Department of Recreation, Parks and Support Services. It's one of many cultural organizations on Long Island where visitors can discover the important role African Americans have played in the region's history.
What You Can See and Do
The museum hosts many exciting events throughout the year. These include celebrations for Black History Month and Kwanzaa. They also honor the lives of important figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. To make it easier for more people to visit, Nassau County decided in 2005 to remove all admission fees. This means it's free to explore!
The museum also works as a community center. It helps share African American culture through education, art, and other programs. Many exhibits focus on Long Island, showing its importance in the region's history.
History and Recognition
One of the people who helped start the museum was Dr. Leroy Ramsey. He was a historian for the Department of Defense. The museum's first director, for 20 years, was Willie Houston.
In 2005, the museum received a special honor. It was one of the first ten places to get the Museum Preservation Award from American Legacy magazine. This award recognized its important work in preserving history.
Learning About Your Family History
Many school groups visit the museum to learn. It is also home to the African Atlantic Genealogy Society. This group helps people research their family history. They offer workshops and assistance to help you "Dig for Roots" at the African American Museum.
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