Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture facts for kids
Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture
|
|
| Established | 1991 |
|---|---|
| Location | 301 Main Street, Natchez, MS, United States |
The Natchez Museum of African American History and Culture is an important museum in Natchez, MS, United States. It tells the story of African American history and culture in the southern part of the country. The museum first opened in 1991. It was started by the Natchez Association for the Preservation of African American Culture (NAPAC). This group works to share the many contributions made by people of African heritage.
Contents
The Museum Building
The museum is located in a historic building in Natchez, Mississippi. This building used to be a United States Post Office. It was built around 1904. The museum and its exhibits fill about 10,000 square feet of space.
Exploring History Through Exhibits
The museum's exhibits show events from 1716, when Natchez became a city, all the way to today. They use art, photos, old papers, special objects, and books to tell these stories.
Key Historical Periods Displayed
Exhibits cover different times in history. These include the era of slavery and the American Civil War. They also show the time of Reconstruction, when the country rebuilt after the war. Later exhibits cover 20th-century wars and the Civil Rights Movement.
Forks of the Road: A Significant Site
One important exhibit is about "Forks of the Road." This was the second-largest slave market in the southern United States. It has even been recognized by the United Nations. This shows its important role in the international slave trade.
The Rhythm Nightclub Fire
Another exhibit remembers the Rhythm Nightclub fire. This tragic event caused the deaths of over 200 African American citizens from Natchez.
Celebrating Richard Wright
The museum also has a special section for Richard Wright. He was a famous author born in Natchez. His books are known around the world.
Educational Events and Programs
The museum also hosts many educational events. These presentations help visitors learn even more about history. In February 2016, for Black History Month, the museum held its first Natchez Hip Hop Summit. It featured Hip hop music performances. There was also a discussion about hip hop and racial identity.
Learning and Education Programs
The museum often hosts special learning programs for students. The staff also helps with other educational events. For example, Darrell S. White, the museum's director, has taken part in the Black and Blue Civil War Living History Program.
Portraying Historical Figures
In this program, Mr. White has played two important historical figures:
- Hiram Revels: He was a freedman during the Civil War. He helped create two African-American army groups. Later, he became the first African American to serve as a senator from Mississippi in the U.S. Congress.
- Wilson Brown: He was an escaped slave who joined the United States Navy. He was awarded the Medal of Honor. This is the highest American military award. He earned it for his bravery on the ship USS Hartford during the Battle of Mobile Bay in August 1864.
See also
