The African American Military History Museum, also known as East Sixth Street USO Building, is located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, United States. The museum opened to the public on May 23, 2009.
The African American Military History Museum in Hattiesburg, MS.
Historical Significance
The museum building was originally constructed in 1942 as a USO Club for African American soldiers who were stationed at Camp Shelby. The East Sixth Street USO building was unique in that it was constructed specifically to house an African American USO, shortly after the United States entered World War II, and had support of both Blacks and Whites in Hattiesburg. This building is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places and is a Mississippi Landmark.
Between 1942 and 1946, the East Sixth Street USO Club served as a home away from home for African American soldiers who were stationed at Camp Shelby. The facility was a place where soldiers could come for recreation, relaxation, and socialization.
The structure is a T-shaped wood-frame building. The interior contained an auditorium, stage, lobby, men's and women's restrooms, dressing rooms, meeting rooms, and a central brick chimney. The auditorium measured 34 by 55 feet (10 by 17 meters).
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Prior to becoming the African American Military History Museum, the former USO building housed the N.R. Following a year of reconstruction, the museum officially reopened on February 6, 2014.
Exhibits and Collections
The African American Military History Museum bears witness to the service and sacrifice of the African American soldier from the Revolutionary War to the modern-day conflicts of Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Hundreds of artifacts, photos and unique displays, including one of the most complete sets of authentic Spanish-American War medals, fill the restored main hall.
The museum focuses on Hattiesburg area African American Soldiers who have served in the US Military since Spanish American War. It includes exhibits on Jesse Leroy Brown, America's first black naval aviator, and Ruth Bailey Earl, WWII WAC, nurse and patriotic icon.
African American Soldiers.
Educational Programs
The African American Military History Museum provides educational programs and resources in history, the arts, and STEM. Programming is available for all ages and groups. Academic programs are aligned with state and national standards, and can be customized to fit your curriculum needs. Programs are offered at the museum, as well as offsite at your location.
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The museum offers the following:
- Educational programs in history, arts, and STEM
- Programs for all ages and groups
- Academic programs aligned with state and national standards
- Customizable programs to fit curriculum needs
- On-site and off-site program availability
African Americans in the Military: A Legacy of Exceptional Service
Veterans Open House
Hattiesburg-area veterans were treated to an early Veterans Day event at the African American Military History Museum Wednesday. An annual Veterans Open House provided lunch and special pen sets for veterans who attended. Museum staff and volunteers said they wanted to show veterans how much they were appreciated.
The event included the presentation of a Champion Award, named in honor of the late veteran and community leader Alvin Eaton. The recipient of the award was veteran Michael McGee, who has supported and served veterans in his work with organizations like Disabled American Veterans and programs like Work for Warriors Mississippi.
McGee said, “Just to be honored in this way is really overwhelming, because I don’t do it for the recognition in it. I do it because I have a love for veterans, people and just service to them and seeing how we can give back as a community.”
Visiting Information
The museum is located at 305 E 6th St, Hattiesburg, MS 39401. It is open Wednesday through Friday from 10am to 4pm, and Saturday from 12am to 4pm. There is no admission fee.
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Support the Museum
Monetary donations to the Museum assist in efforts to honor those who served in the United States military. Through support, the museum can bring new exhibitions, provide educational programs, and continue the stewardship of collections. Honoring those who served and preserving what they left behind remains a top priority.
