Our History
The National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center was born of a long legacy of intellectual progress and political activism. Situated on the historic campus of Wilberforce University, the lands were once home to the American Indian ancestors whom archaeologists call Hopewell and Adena, and then later the Shawnee. Wilberforce opened in 1856 and soon became a mecca for African American educators, philosophers, military heroes, and cultural leaders.
By the 1960s, racial justice advocates amplified the call for a national museum. In 1970, Clarence Brown, a congressman from Ohio, introduced federal legislation for an African American museum on the site due to the long, rich history of Wilberforce. The museum opened in 1988 with a grand celebration and by the late 1990s, had established itself as a leader in the field of preserving and presenting African American history. Today, we are a beacon to researchers across the world, share our collections with museums all over the globe, and present award-winning exhibits of national and local significance. Here at the NAAMCC, we invite you to own your history, live your legacy!
Plan Your Visit
The Museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 9 AM to 4 PM. Exhibits and programs are included with museum admission: $6/adult, $5/senior, $3/ages 6-17, Free to Ohio History Connection and NAAMCC members, and everyone five and younger. Please call or visit our Facebook to find out more about special holiday hours and events. You can also visit us online HERE.
