Tallahassee Unveils New Exhibit on African American History

News Summary

Tallahassee has launched a new exhibit titled ‘African Americans in Tallahassee: The Civil War and Reconstruction Era.’ Housed at the John G. Riley Center/Museum, the exhibit celebrates the rich history of African Americans during these pivotal periods. It features artifacts, photos, and oral histories, showcasing legendary local figures and their contributions. The exhibit runs until 2025, encouraging community engagement through a broader celebration of Black History Month and local history resources.

Celebrating Heritage: Tallahassee Opens New Exhibit on African American History

In the heart of Tallahassee, a brand-new exhibit is making waves and inviting guests to explore a rich tapestry of African American history during the challenging yet significant Civil War and Reconstruction eras. This exciting new addition is being hosted at the esteemed John G. Riley Center/Museum for African American History & Culture and is set to run until the end of 2025.

Exhibit Overview

This exhibit, titled “African Americans in Tallahassee: The Civil War and Reconstruction Era,” is the second part of an ambitious four-part series that kicked off with a focus on the Antebellum Period. As a part of this series, visitors can look forward to future exhibits centered around “The World Wars and Post-War Life” in 2026 and “The Civil Rights Era” in 2027.

Inspiring Narrative

The overall aim of this exhibition is heartwarming and inspiring: to share a “comprehensive narrative of resistance, resilience, and success against all odds.” Guests will journey through time, beginning in the museum’s Visitor Center, where insights into Tallahassee during the Civil War Era await them. The journey wraps up at the historic Riley House next door.

Exploring Heritage Through Artifacts and Stories

This exhibit does not shy away from highlighting the lives of newly freed African Americans in Tallahassee. Visitors will learn about remarkable figures from the past, such as Antonio Proctor, an 80-year-old freedman, and Margaret Yellowhair, a dedicated local teacher and movie theater owner. The exhibit also features captivating oral histories, artifacts, photographs, maps, and illustrations that are sure to educate and inspire all who visit.

Innovations and Renovations

To ensure that the exhibit is showcased beautifully, the gallery spaces at the Riley House underwent considerable renovations in 2024. With funding from a nearly $285,000 historical grant provided by the Florida Department of State, many stabilization and restoration needs of this 135-year-old house were addressed. This included restoring the floors, walls, and even installing new windows, allowing visitors to enjoy the exhibit in a beautiful setting.

Visiting Information

The John G. Riley Center/Museum is located at 419 E. Jefferson Street and offers guided tours every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.. For guests who prefer more flexibility, special appointments are available on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays. Don’t forget to swing by the gift shop, where you can purchase museum memberships, books, and unique merchandise.

Community Engagement

As part of a broader celebration, the Leon County government is gearing up for an exciting lineup for Black History Month. This includes thematic book and movie lists and a variety of engaging events. Additionally, local residents and visitors alike can explore an array of digital resources and historical sites that connect deeply with the African American history of Tallahassee.

Legacy of Land Ownership

Historical research reveals a profound legacy of Black land ownership in Tallahassee after the Civil War. One notable figure, Henry Watson, emerged as one of the early Black landowners, purchasing several parcels of land that would significantly contribute to the local African American community. His story, along with many others, forms an essential chapter in the city’s history and highlights the perseverance of the community.

With this new exhibit, Tallahassee is not only paying homage to the trials and triumphs of its past but also inspiring future generations to continue fostering a shared and inclusive narrative.

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Additional Resources

• Tallahassee.com: Leon County Marks Black History Month
• WTXL: Experts on African American History
• Tallahassee.com: First Black Landowners After the Civil War
• Washington Post: Florida Black History Task Force
• Tallahassee.com: Teachers Grapple with Teaching Black History
• Wikipedia: African American History