Woodson African American Museum of Florida facts for kids
Entrance to museum
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| Established | 2006 |
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| Location | 2240 9th Ave S, St. Petersburg, Florida 33712 |
| Type | Ethnic and Local History |
The Woodson African American Museum of Florida is a special place in St. Petersburg, Florida. It used to be called the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum. This museum is named after Carter G. Woodson. He was an important African American historian and a leader for civil rights.
The museum is in the Jordan Park area of southwest St. Petersburg. It is very important to the history and culture of the St. Petersburg community. The museum has many different exhibits and events for people to enjoy. In its Legacy Garden, the paths are made of bricks. Each brick has the name of someone who donated money to the museum.
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Discovering the Museum's History
The Dr. Carter G. Woodson Museum started in 2006. This happened after the original Jordan Park housing buildings were updated. In 1997, the St. Petersburg Housing Authority received a large grant. This money helped to improve the Jordan Park public housing area.
The building where the museum is now used to be the Jordan Park administrative offices. In 2008, a group of St. Petersburg leaders helped create a garden behind the museum. This garden was designed with the idea of "leaving a legacy."
The community's children chose the museum's name. They nominated and voted for Woodson. Carter G. Woodson was the second African American to earn a doctorate degree from Harvard University. He also helped start Black History Month.
What the Museum Aims to Do
The museum has an important goal. It wants to save, show, and explain African American history. It also wants to connect with many different people through these activities. The museum hopes to help different groups in St. Petersburg understand each other better. This helps everyone respect and value diversity. It also helps to promote equal rights and fairness for all.
Who Leads the Museum
The main leader of the museum is Terri Lipsey Scott. She is the executive director. In 2017, she won an award from the African American Heritage Association of St. Petersburg. She received this award for her hard work and dedication to the museum. She also works hard for the African American community in the city.
The museum has a board of directors. The current board members include Ray Arsenault, Frechette Bradley, Kimberly Brown-Reynolds, Chiquita Clark, Roslyn Graham, Sheree Greer, Yolanda Hudson, Thelma McCloud, and Carol M. Motley.
Exciting Programs and Exhibits
The museum often shows new art exhibits. These exhibits feature artwork by African American artists. These artists come from Florida and other states like Georgia. The museum is also planning to have a permanent art display.
Many different events happen at the museum. These include "Chatting with the Chief," weddings, birthdays, art walks, and festivals. The "Chatting with the Chief" events began in 2014. The new Chief of Police, Anthony Holloway, started them. He promised to be available for community members to ask him questions at the museum.
The Museum's Positive Impact
The museum's website explains its importance. It says that the history of African Americans is a main focus. This includes their history in St. Petersburg and around the world. The museum works to keep this rich history alive. It does this for people living in St. Petersburg now and for future visitors.
