Roots 101 African American Museum is a powerful, independent institution. It was founded by Louisville native Lamont Collins, its CEO, in 2019.
Collins began noticing disparities in his early childhood. When Collins was around 10 years old, his family moved to Bashford Manor, a predominantly white neighborhood at the time. After playing football at the University of Louisville, Collins worked in various industries, getting his start working for the tobacco company Philip Morris. He worked there for 15 years, during which he sued the company because of concerns over promotions not being provided to Black people. “So I’ve done a little bit of everything.
The Vision of Lamont Collins
Roots 101 African American Museum is the brainchild of Lamont Collins, a passionate advocate for preserving and sharing Black history. His vision was to create a space that not only educates but also heals and empowers the community. Collins has been instrumental in gathering an expansive collection that has already outgrown its initial space, demonstrating the museum's vital role and growing impact.
Collins's dedication is evident in his personal engagement with visitors. He is known for his passionate presentations and willingness to foster dialogue, even with differing perspectives. This hands-on approach makes the museum experience deeply personal and impactful, transforming it from a passive viewing of artifacts into an active engagement with history and its relevance today.
The museum's recognition, including being named one of Architectural Digest's top museums worldwide and USA Today's Top 10 Best New Attractions, speaks volumes about Collins's successful execution of his vision. Roots 101 stands as a testament to the power of independent museums and the importance of preserving Black narratives.
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Exhibits and Highlights
Collins spoke about the various exhibits on display, such as the nationally recognized exhibit “Big Momma’s House”.
“And we would not have the story of history without Big Momma’s House because Big Momma’s House has pictures on the wall of things we created, things that we did as kids. Our first graduation, the first one that graduated from college,” Collins said.
Additionally, the museum showcases certain exhibits in hopes of “making the comfortable uncomfortable.” Collins describes this as educating people about periods of history that are often misrepresented or glossed over, allowing visitors to gain a better understanding of the usually horrific events that occurred.
For example, the exhibit “Protest to Progress” commemorates innocent Black people whose lives were unjustly taken, including Emmett Till, Breonna Taylor and Sandra Bland. Similarly, the exhibit “The Circle of Hate” reinforces this goal. The dimly lit room contains a life-sized model of a 1920s member of the Klu Klux Klan (KKK) sitting atop a horse, both draped in white sheets.
Additional exhibits celebrate Black excellence and culture throughout history. “The Roots of Music” showcases framed records, traditional African drums and numerous American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) awards. Another exhibit, “Stomp the Yard,” focuses on the Divine Nine sororities and fraternities along with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
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An exhibit celebrating Black athletes showcased artifacts of Lenny Lyles, a Central High School graduate who played football for UofL, as well as in the NFL.
Special Events and Community Engagement
On Thursday, Feb. 20, the museum hosted a book preview and discussion showcasing the recently published “Extra, Extra Read All About It! Georgetown Stories by Daddy’O the Paper Boy!” by Alaska Williams. Williams grew up in Georgetown, a Black hamlet in Harlan, Kentucky. While it was once a vibrant community in Eastern Kentucky, Georgetown no longer exists, as it was destroyed by flooding in 1977.
At the event, Williams explored various chapters of the book, highlighting and explaining certain chapters while recalling memories and connecting with the audience. Williams’ friends and family, along with many community members, showed up for his stories and remarks.
This message of connectivity, which echoes throughout Roots 101, is an important principle Collins has brought to the table when curating both exhibits and community outreach.
According to Collins, the museum doesn’t rely on endowments or money from the city of Louisville to operate.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Roots 101 African American Museum and consider dedicating ample time to absorb the impactful exhibits. This museum is designed to be immersive and thought-provoking. Be prepared for exhibits that confront difficult truths about history, but also celebrate resilience and culture. Many visitors find it deeply moving and inspiring.
Tips From All Over The Internet
- Engage with Staff: The staff, including founder Lamont Collins, are welcoming and knowledgeable. Ask questions!
- Touch Artifacts (if permitted): Some exhibits allow touching, offering a unique way to connect with history.
Visitors consistently praise Roots 101 African American Museum for its powerful, emotional, and educational exhibits that offer a deep dive into Black history and culture. The museum is lauded for its chronological flow, impactful displays like the Breonna Taylor tribute, and the welcoming nature of its staff and founder, Lamont Collins.
While some exhibits confront difficult truths, the overall experience is described as inspiring and essential for understanding American history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting There
Roots 101 African American Museum is located at 124 N. 1st Street in downtown Louisville, KY. It's easily accessible by car and is part of the African American Heritage Trail. It's recommended to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information on bus or train lines that stop near N. 1st Street.
Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary. Follow their social media for announcements. Group rates are often available for schools, organizations, and other parties. Contact the museum directly to inquire about group bookings and pricing.
Roots 101 African-American History Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, dedicated to its mission of promoting understanding and appreciation of African American history and culture.
Onsite Experience
Expect a powerful and emotional journey through African American history, from African art and the horrors of enslavement to the Jim Crow era and beyond. Highlights include a Breonna Taylor tribute and exhibits on ancestral resilience.
While some exhibits allow touching artifacts, the primary interaction comes from the immersive storytelling and the emotional impact of the displays. The founder, Lamont Collins, is also known for engaging presentations.
The museum is educational and can be impactful for older children and teens. However, some exhibits are emotionally heavy, so parental discretion is advised.
Most visitors recommend allocating at least 1-2 hours to fully experience the museum and its exhibits. Some may wish to spend longer to reflect on the powerful narratives.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check for signage upon arrival or ask a staff member if photography is permitted in all areas.
Food & Dining
The museum itself typically does not have a full-service restaurant. However, they may offer concessions or have space for catered events.
Being in downtown Louisville, there are numerous restaurants and eateries within walking distance or a short drive from the museum, offering a variety of cuisines.
Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside museums. It's best to consume these items before entering or utilize designated areas if available.
Downtown Louisville has many family-friendly dining options. You can find casual eateries, diners, and restaurants with diverse menus suitable for all ages.
Yes, the museum can be a venue for events, and catering is often part of such arrangements. Inquire directly with the museum for event hosting details.
Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's always best to look for signage upon entry or ask a museum staff member if photos are permitted in all exhibition areas.
Many visitors find the overall narrative and specific tributes, like the one to Breonna Taylor, to be powerful and visually striking. The chronological flow also offers unique perspectives.
Flash photography is often prohibited in museums to protect artifacts. If photography is allowed, it's usually without flash. Always adhere to museum guidelines.
Professional photography or videography may require special permission or advance booking. Contact the museum's administration for their specific policies on commercial or professional shoots.
Visiting during off-peak hours, like weekday mornings, can offer fewer crowds, allowing for more unobstructed photos. Natural light might also be more consistent.
For Different Travelers
History Enthusiasts & Educators
For history buffs and educators, Roots 101 is an invaluable resource. The museum's commitment to presenting an unapologetic journey through Black history offers deep insights into the African American experience from its roots in Africa to its impact on contemporary society. The founder, Lamont Collins, is known for his engaging presentations and ability to connect historical events to present-day life.
The museum's collection is extensive and has already outgrown its space, indicating a rich and diverse array of artifacts and stories. Educators will find it a compelling site for field trips, offering a more visceral and emotionally resonant understanding of historical periods like enslavement and Jim Crow than textbooks alone can provide. The museum's role as a healing and educational space makes it a crucial stop for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of American history.
Travelers Seeking Authentic Experiences
If you're looking for an authentic and impactful travel experience, Roots 101 African American Museum should be high on your list. It's celebrated as a favorite museum by many, offering a powerful, educational, and emotional journey. Visitors often highlight the unique perspective gained here, noting that 'they don't teach us everything in school'.
The museum's location along the African American Heritage Trail makes it a perfect addition to a broader exploration of Black history and culture in Kentucky. Meeting the founder, Lamont Collins, and engaging with the passionate staff can add another layer of authenticity to your visit. It's a destination that resonates long after you leave, offering a deeper connection to the stories and resilience of African Americans.
An Emotional and Educational Journey
Visitors consistently describe Roots 101 as an emotional and educational experience that goes beyond typical museum visits. The museum's layout guides visitors through a chronological narrative, starting with African art and progressing through the brutal realities of enslavement, the Jim Crow era, and into contemporary Black culture and achievements. This flow is a testament to creative curation, making a single large room feel like a comprehensive journey.
The exhibits are designed to be powerful and thought-provoking, confronting difficult truths head-on. The slave box exhibit is frequently mentioned as particularly harrowing, offering a stark reminder of the immense suffering endured by ancestors. Similarly, the tribute to Breonna Taylor serves as a significant act of remembrance and a statement of resistance.
Despite the heavy themes, the museum also celebrates resilience, culture, and joy. Exhibits honoring the strength of women who held families together and the broader spectrum of Black excellence create a balanced and inspiring narrative.
Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Founder | Lamont Collins |
| Year Founded | 2019 |
| Location | Louisville, KY |
| Mission | Preserving and sharing Black history |
