JEFFERSON CITY, MO, FEB. 16, 2018 – In commemoration of Black History Month, the Missouri State Museum will offer a series of free public events that help tell the story of Missouri’s black community.
Portrait Exhibit - Feb. 19-24
The public is invited to view a newly created pop-up exhibit featuring historical portraits of black Missourians. The exhibit introduces viewers to the use of photography as an effective medium for documenting and empowering the black community. The exhibit’s photographs capture images of people struggling to overcome discrimination and to find a better life for themselves and their descendants.
Hosted by Jefferson City Parks and Recreation, the exhibit can be viewed Feb. 19-24 at the LINC Health and Wellness Center on Lincoln University’s campus during normal operating hours. The LINC is located at 1299 Lafayette St., Jefferson City. For operating hours and other information about the LINC, visit http://jeffersoncitymo.gov/the_linc/index.php.
Project Preview - Feb. 22
The state museum’s Black History Month commemoration continues with an exclusive public preview of two projects that highlight the history of Missouri’s black business districts. The projects include a documentary by Rodney Thompson titled "18th STREET LIVES!" and an exhibit by the Missouri State Museum titled "Boom! The Rise and Fall of Missouri’s Black Business Districts."
The Missouri State Museum and Lincoln University will preview the projects from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Feb. 22 at Lincoln University's Inman E. Page Library, Room 100, located at 712 Lee Dr., Jefferson City. Participants will have the opportunity to talk with the creators about their developing projects and offer feedback. Refreshments will also be served.
Special Presentation - Feb. 24
The Missouri State Museum will conclude its commemoration on Feb. 24 with a special presentation. Museum Curator Sydney Johnson will present "Missourians who Made a Difference," a message about change-makers and activists throughout Missouri History.
Hosted by Second Baptist Church, this free community event will begin at 10 a.m. at 501 Monroe St., Jefferson City.
The Missouri State Museum, which is part of the Missouri State Parks system, is located on the first floor of the Missouri State Capitol. For more information, contact the museum at 573-751-2854.
For information on Missouri’s state parks and historic sites, visit https://mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.