Tallahassee Archives Embrace Digital Transformation

News Summary

The Meek-Eaton Black Archives in Tallahassee is undergoing a transformative phase under new director Timothy Barber. With a fresh approach to exhibitions and the launch of MEBA Digital, visitors can now access historical archives virtually. Upcoming exhibits include ‘Beyond Black Beauty’ and a celebration of the Marching 100 band. Barber’s vision is to present history engagingly, making it accessible for all. As the archives prepare for their 50th anniversary, community support and collaborations with institutions like the Smithsonian aim to enhance the educational impact.

Tallahassee Takes a Leap into the Digital Future

Exciting things are happening at the Meek-Eaton Black Archives Research Center and Museum in Tallahassee, Florida! Under new leadership, the archives are setting the stage for a vibrant reimagining of how we experience and learn about Black history. Timothy Barber, the recently appointed director and former FAMU student, is determined to make history as engaging as a day out at Disney World. Yes, you read that right!

A Fresh Approach to Exhibitions

Timothy Barber has a knack for designing exhibits that grab attention and keep it. Just last year, he hosted the memorable exhibit titled “Funky Turns 40: Black Character Revolution.” This showcase, highlighting the representation of people of color in media, pulled back the curtain on past portrayals of Black characters in cartoons and television. By contrasting historical images with modern ones, visitors could see just how far we’ve come and how much more needs to be done. His philosophy? Let the exhibits speak for themselves. Barber aims for a level of self-awareness among visitors, encouraging them to reflect on the truths of history without bias.

A Legacy That Continues to Grow

Established in 1976 with a mandate from 1971, the Meek-Eaton Black Archives holds a treasure trove, boasting over 500,000 individual records and more than 5,000 museum artifacts. This extensive collection is dedicated to preserving the rich culture and history of the Black community in Florida. Barber’s return to FAMU and his commitment to enhancing the archives paves the way for an exciting future.

Accessing History Like Never Before

One of the most thrilling additions is the launch of MEBA Digital, a virtual platform designed to ensure global access to the museum’s impressive collections. Through two main portals, Explore and Learn, visitors can embark on virtual tours of current exhibits or delve into a wealth of historical archives from the comfort of their homes. It’s all about making this place of history accessible to everyone, everywhere!

What’s on the Horizon?

Looking ahead, there is much to anticipate at the Meek-Eaton Black Archives. One standout exhibition in the works, titled “Beyond Black Beauty,” is set to showcase Black women’s hairstyles as powerful symbols of resistance when it opens in Spring 2025. There will also be a special celebration of the Marching 100 band as it marks its 80th anniversary and a deep dive into the cultural impact of the film “Stomp the Yard,” celebrating its 20th anniversary. These upcoming exhibits promise to engage and educate audiences in innovative ways!

Preserving Our Past

Barber emphasizes the importance of presenting history in its proper context, particularly when it comes to more contentious topics. To further enhance the archives, a significant grant from the National Park Service will fund the rehabilitation of the neighboring Carnegie Library, adding even more value to the historical offerings.

Strengthening Community Ties

As the Meek-Eaton Black Archives prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary, plans to bolster funding through community support and grants are underway, which would mean even more public access to collections and rotating exhibits. Collaborations with esteemed institutions like the Smithsonian and Mellon Foundation are also enhancing its global reach as the archives aim to educate a wider audience.

Visit the Archives

The archives welcome visitors from Monday through Friday, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., at their location on 1601 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tallahassee, FL. It’s a perfect opportunity to dive into the heart and soul of Black history, now with even more ways to explore!