Spencer Crew facts for kids

Spencer Crew, born in 1949, is an American professor, museum director, and writer. He has spent his career working with museums and teaching history. He is known for his work in preserving and sharing American history, especially African American history.

Spencer Crew's Education Journey

Learning at Rutgers University

Spencer Crew studied history at Rutgers University. He earned his PhD degree there in 1979. A PhD is a very high degree you can get from a university.

In 2003, Rutgers University honored him. They added him to their Hall of Distinguished Alumni. This means he is one of their most successful former students.

Spencer Crew's Career in Museums

Starting at the National Museum of American History

Spencer Crew's work in museums began in 1981. He was hired as a historian at the National Museum of American History (NMAH). This museum is a big part of the Smithsonian Institution.

In 1986, he created his first exhibition there. It was called Field to Factory: African-American Migration, 1915–1940. This exhibit showed how many African Americans moved from the South to northern cities.

Becoming a Museum Director

Spencer Crew made history in 1994. He became the first African-American director of the National Museum of American History. This was a very important role.

In 2001, he took on a new challenge. He became the director of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. This center teaches about the history of the Underground Railroad. It also explores modern-day freedom struggles.

Later, in 2019, Crew was asked to be the interim director. This was for the National Museum of African American History and Culture. This museum is also part of the Smithsonian. He served in this role until 2020.

Teaching History at University

Besides his museum work, Spencer Crew is also a professor. He teaches U.S. history at George Mason University. He holds the title of Clarence J. Robinson Professor.