Established nearly 30 years ago, the Northeast Louisiana Delta African American Heritage Museum stands as a beacon of cultural preservation and history. Founded in 1994 by Mrs. Nancy Johnson, the Northeast Louisiana Delta African-American Heritage Museum received its charter on February 3, 1994, and opened its doors to the public on March 12 of the same year under the executive direction of Mrs. Lorraine Slacks.
The museum is dedicated to researching, identifying, acquiring, and preserving visual art, historical documents, and artifacts that reflect the life, contributions, and culture of African Americans. A beacon in the community and a valuable resource for local schools, the museum offers educational tours, community workshops, and events that celebrate influential figures and historical moments.
A Legacy of Leadership and Empowerment
Lorraine Slacks teamed up with Nancy and led as executive director for nearly 20 years. Following Nancy’s passing, Lorraine steered the museum's expansion to its current location in the beautiful and historic Chennault Park. Today, her son, Mr. Ross Slacks, continues her legacy as the Executive Director of the museum, dedicated to preserving, promoting, and enhancing cultural awareness of African-American heritage in the region.
Ross has been connected to the museum for as long as he can remember, having grown up in an atmosphere dedicated to showcasing a variety of mediums that encompass the African American experience, rather than just viewing art as pictures. Observing his mother's leadership at the museum during his upbringing helped him prepare for his current role as executive director. However, it hasn't been without challenges.
The museum's mission, unchanged since its beginning, is all about empowering people. It aims to preserve, promote, and provide educational programs to enhance cultural awareness of African American heritage in the area. Ross believes in showcasing the success stories from Northeast Louisiana to inspire kids that they can achieve anything.
Read also: Experience Fad's Fine African Cuisine
Destination Louisiane: Explore Northeast Louisiana African American Heritage museum
Exhibits and Art
The museum houses Louisiana's largest and most significant collection of work, by world-renowned expressionist artist and Northeast Louisiana native, Don Cincone. His paintings, with their brilliant hues and sympathetic subjects, are both evocative and tender. In addition to the work of Cincone, the museum exhibits talented regional artists including Daryl Triplet and Bernard Menyweather and hundreds of artifacts from African American life in Northeast Louisiana throughout the centuries.
A variety of art and history can be seen at the museum. You’ll find pieces by local artists like Bernard Menyweather, Don Cincone, and Daryl Triplett. The museum covers a 15-parish area and showcases a wide variety of artifacts that relate to the life and culture of the Black community including models of famous African American leaders like statesman and reformer Frederick Douglass, educator Mary Bethune, and first African American millionaire and businesswoman Madam C.J. Walker.
The museum has showcased exhibits from jazz legends, the Traveling Black Inventor’s Museum, African textiles, quilting, and more. Focusing on art and supporting local artists, the museum's collection and activities highlight Monroe and the surrounding Northeast Louisiana parishes.
Educational Programs and Community Impact
Outside of the museum’s exhibits and educational events, they’re adding technology to the mix. The museum’s current ‘Art Room’ located at the back of the building is turning into a computer lab. Corporate partners, civic groups, or educational organizations can reserve this lab for classes, virtual reality sessions or 3D printing. Last February, over 2,000 children visited for Black History Month.
The impact of the museum is seen throughout the local community. It was the first museum in our area to start spoken word poetry events, where people can share their stories and creativity. You can also attend training sessions, conferences, and art classes at the museum. If you have any ideas or want to get involved, the museum is always looking for volunteers.
Read also: The Story Behind Cachapas
Monroe’s rich African American history is displayed at the museum to teach everyone aspects that are often forgotten. The African Heritage Museum is essential to Monroe’s African American history, as each exhibit and piece of art portrays the story of African Americans in the Monroe area. The museum hosts seminars, research and art exhibits throughout the year, giving visitors something new to learn each time they visit.
Visiting the Museum
The museum has guided tours and a gift shop that offers unique gifts and a wide book selection for adults and children. The museum is open Tuesday - Friday 10 am - 4 pm and Saturday 10 am - 2 pm.
Location: 1501 Chennault Park Drive, Monroe, La.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Tuesday - Friday | 10 am - 4 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am - 2 pm |
Read also: Techniques of African Jewellery
