Wisconsin Black Historical Society/Museum
2620 W. Center Street, Milwaukee, WI 53206414-372-7677 - Phone
2620 W. Center Street, Milwaukee, WI 53206414-372-7677 - Phone
Clayborn Benson
Founder/Executive Director
Dear Friends:
After 21 years of existence, the Wisconsin Black Historical Society Museum is continuing its rich reputation of preserving Wisconsin's African American history. One does not need to look far to see the contributions of African American's in Wisconsin. It is thought that African Americans did not arrive until the late 1950s; however records detail that African Americans came to Wisconsin serving as trappers and guides in the 16th and 17th centuries. African Americans were a major source of labor used to build this state. We were here from the beginning of this State's history and part of every major event that followed it's growth.
We begin this season by embarking on a host of new projects and exhibits. The first is an exhibit profiling African Americans in the Milwaukee Fire Department, entitled, "Brothers Under Fire". This exhibit depicts the impact of racism on African Americans as they were denied the opportunity to find employment in a job that provides a great service to all communities.
The second exhibit illustrates the riots of 1967, open house marches and school desegregation. 40th Anniversary of the Civil Right Movement: March on Milwaukee 2007 is a traveling exhibit that is housed at the museum but will also be available to go into the community to share the experiences of the times. Accompanied by a speaker's bureau, music and a variety of other activities, this exhibit is one that marks a very important time in Wisconsin's history.
I am very proud of the State's African American History. From the beginning, African Americans recognized that they had rights and for the last 150 years they have worked to maintain those rights. The existence of the Museum and the continuation of our mission through exhibits, education and programming is an example of this commitment to preserving this history. We are obligated to preserve the rich history of African Americans particularly that of those from Wisconsin. Our museum takes pride in sharing this history and I hope this web site offers you some knowledge and information to share with others.
Thank you,
Clayborn Benson
Executive Director
Clayborn@execpc.com
