Tuskegee Human and Civil Rights Museum facts for kids
The Tuskegee History Center is a special place in Tuskegee, Alabama. It's also known as the Tuskegee Human and Civil Rights Multicultural Center or the Tuskegee Human and Civil Rights Museum. This center opened in 1997 and is part of the U.S. Civil Rights History Trail. It also acts as a welcome center for visitors to Macon County, Alabama and Tuskegee.
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What is the Tuskegee History Center?
The Tuskegee History Center was created to remember and honor the people involved in a difficult health study. This study happened a long time ago through Tuskegee University. The names of 623 men who were part of this study are shown on the floor of the center. This helps visitors understand their stories. The center shares a different view compared to the Tuskegee University Legacy Museum.
Exploring Local History
The museum also works to keep alive the stories of different groups of people. These include Native Americans, European Americans, and African Americans who lived in Central Alabama. It shows how the town of Tuskegee grew and changed over many years.
Who Helps Lead the Center?
Fred D. Gray is the president of the Tuskegee History Center. He helped get money from a legal agreement related to the health study to support the museum. This funding helps the center continue its important work.
Partnerships and Special Events
The Tuskegee History Center often works with other organizations to share history.
Working with Auburn University
In 2011, Auburn University teamed up with the center for a special project. They recorded interviews with people about a court case called Lee v. Macon County Board of Education. This case was very important because it helped end segregation in Alabama schools. Segregation meant that Black and white students had to go to separate schools.
Celebrating School Integration
In 2013, the center held an event to celebrate a big moment in history. It was the 50th anniversary of schools becoming integrated in Tuskegee. This means students of all races could go to school together. The event was even shown on C-Span, a TV channel that broadcasts important public events.
Helping the Museum Grow
More recently, in 2021, a company called Lowes helped the museum. They gave money and also sent their staff to help fix and repair parts of the building. This support helps the Tuskegee History Center stay a great place for learning.
