Rural African American Museum facts for kids
| Established | 2018 |
|---|---|
| Location | 1414 North Main Street, Opelousas, Louisiana, 70570 |
| Type | History museum |
| Collections | African-American history |
| Founder | Wilken Jones |
The Rural African American Museum is a special place in Opelousas, United States. It teaches visitors about the history of African Americans who lived in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana. The museum covers the time from the American Civil War (which ended in 1865) up to today. It opened in late 2018. You can visit for free, but donations help keep it running.
The museum was started by Wilken Jones, a retired social studies teacher. He grew up in a nearby town called Plaisance. The museum has many interesting things on display. These include old books, objects, and newspaper clippings. They show what life was like for Black families in the area, especially those who worked as sharecroppers in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Sharecroppers were farmers who rented land and paid with a share of their crops.
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Discovering African American History
The Rural African American Museum helps people learn about the economic, religious, and political history of the region. It shows how African Americans lived and contributed to their communities.
Inside the Museum
The museum's main exhibit shows how people lived. You can see old bedroom furniture, kitchen tools, and farm equipment. These items help visitors understand the daily lives of many Black sharecroppers. The displays tell stories about their homes, work, and challenges.
Community Programs and Support
The museum also helps the community in different ways. In July 2019, it offered a summer camp program for children. This was especially helpful for kids whose churches were damaged in April 2019. The museum's activities also celebrate the hard work of local African American community members. They have programs that honor their achievements and contributions.
See also
