Springfield and Central Illinois African-American History Museum facts for kids
| Location | 1440 Monument Avenue, Springfield, Illinois |
|---|---|
| Type | African-American history |
| Founder | Douglas King |
The Springfield and Central Illinois African-American History Museum is a special place. It teaches about the history and culture of African Americans. This museum is in Springfield, a city in the state of Illinois. Douglas King, who is a history teacher, started the museum in 2012. In March 2016, the museum found its permanent home. It is now next to Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield. The building used to be the Museum of Funeral Customs, which closed in 2009.
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About the Museum
This museum shares important stories about African-American history in Central Illinois. It shows how African Americans lived and contributed to the area. The museum has many exhibits and presentations.
Early History in Illinois
Some exhibits show how a type of slavery existed in early Springfield. This began around 1819. Another important story is about the free village of New Philadelphia. This town was founded in Pike County in 1836. It was a place where African Americans could live freely.
Important Places and Stories
The museum also highlights the building of the Lincoln Colored Old Folks and Orphans Home. This home was built in 1904. It provided a safe place for older people and children. The museum and its helpers have also collected many "oral histories." These are stories told by people from Central Illinois about their lives. There are more than 700 such stories.
Support for the Museum
The Springfield African American History Foundation helps and supports the museum. This foundation makes sure the museum can continue its important work.
Visiting the Museum
The museum is located at 1440 Monument Avenue in Springfield, Illinois. It is a great place to learn about history.
See also
