"February is Black History Month, or National African American History Month. It is an annual celebration of achievements by black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S. history. The event grew out of “Negro History Week,” the brainchild of noted historian Carter G. Woodson. Since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month.
The High Point Museum will be hosting a couple
of documentary screenings and have two different exhibits on display. One of
the exhibits, Pieces of the Past: The Art of Gwendolyn Jones Magee, will
be open until February 21. This exhibition brings
noted quilter and High Point native Gwendolyn Jones Magee’s art to her hometown
and explores the history she created through her art. It features six quilts. Magee’s art brings
history to life through detailed threadwork, vibrant fabrics and countless
hours of research and design. This exhibit was curated by the UNCG History
Department’s Museum Studies Class of 2015. Guided tours are available for adult, family
and student groups, contact the Museum for reservations.
In conjunction with that exhibit, the Museum
will show the full length “documentary “Gwen Magee: Threads of History." It was created in 2011
by Anne Cremieux and Geraldine Chouard. Magee passed away just days after the
footage was captured. The documentary gives insight into the artist and how she
thought, felt and created her quilts. The screenings will be Saturdays,
February 14 and 21 at 10:30 am at the Museum.
The other exhibit is a collection from Raymond Payne, Rabbit
Quarter Ministries. It includes a variety of African American artifacts
showcasing significant parts of history. It will be display throughout
February.
“There are
many African American stories in High Point’s history, and these are just a few
we are highlighting during this year’s celebration of Black History Month,”
Edith Brady, Museum Director, said.
The High Point Museum has a variety of African American items
and photos on display including a
reproduction of John Coltrane’s 1937 fifth grade school report for Negro
History Month; stained glass window and pulpit from First Baptist Church on
Washington Street; and items from desegregation.
The High
Point Historical Society released its second book in a series of five that
focuses on African American history in High Point. Entitled “Our Roots,
Our Branches, Our Fruits of Knowledge – Black Schools of High Point &
Surrounding Area 1868-1968,” it is authored by local author and historian,
Glenn Chavis. The book is available in the Museum Store for $20.95 plus tax.
The High
Point Museum also has two online exhibits – Melzetta Williams: A Teacher’s
Recollections and A Pathway to Opportunity – focusing on African American
experiences in High Point.
The High Point Museum, located at 1859 E. Lexington Ave., is open
Wednesday through Saturday 10 am to 4:30 pm and the Historical Park is open
Saturday 10 am to 4 pm. Admission is free. For more information, call 885-1859
or visit our website www.highpointmuseum.org.
The
High Point Museum is dedicated to sharing Greater High Point’s history, providing perspective
for current issues, and strengthening the sense of community. Our work is
guided by our core values of connection, diversity, fun, and innovation."
- A Press Release
