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ABOUT US
Celebrating Diversity for Thirty-five (35) Years.
The African American Heritage Society, Inc. was founded September 12,1990, as a 501(c) 3 organization and has operated continuously with vision and purpose for thirty-five (35) years.
Our mission is to preserve, promote, and integrate African American history, heritage, culture and diversity in Pensacola and the Greater Gulf Coast Region through education and the humanities and to continue to lead the area in supporting and promoting Cultural Tourism in Northwest Florida.
Through quality programming, the African American Heritage Society ("the Society") has offered retrospective exhibits in the visual arts and humanities, performing arts programs, cultural festivals, as well as educational lectures, all highlighting a broad spectrum of the African American unique and creative influences and contributions to American life.
Please click the link above entitled "chronological history & record of events" for a listing of the many transformative presentations that we have presented in Pensacola and the surrounding Greater Gulf Coast Region.
The Historic Coulson House was built in 1865 and has been the Headquarters of the African American Heritage Society for twenty-five (25) years. Prior to our location here, we were at the Pensacola Cultural Center, which is also in the Historical District, from 1990 to 2000. The above photo is of the entrance to the Gallery.
Nondiscrimination Statement:
The African American Heritage Society, Inc. was also founded upon the principles of diversity and inclusion. The Society does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, ethnicity, color, sexual orientation, nor disability. Employment opportunities, membership, attendance and access to our center, gallery, programs, and events are open to ALL, and we invite you to join us.
 | Join us for a Book Club Discussion of the novel James written by Percival Everett. Percival Everett has won the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for fiction for his novel “James.”
University of West Florida Assistant Professor Mamie Hixon is facilitating the discussion of this interesting novel. Please join us for discussion of this phenomenal novel. DATE & TIME CHANGE Sunday, June 1, 2025 2:00 P.M. African American Heritage Society Museum 200 Church Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Registration Fee - $20 per person To register/purchase tickets for event, click this link: Book Club Discussion of the novel"James" LIMITED SEATING - Register Early |
Pensacola Black History: Claudette Chapman, a life of service, resilience, and legacy
By Sonshine / Photos by Kate Treick Photography and Lisa Player
Source: BellaMagazine.com | Claudette Chapman embodies a life enriched by resilience, faith, and dedication. As a mother, Navy veteran and church elder, her experiences highlight the profound importance of family history, cultural heritage and community connection. A LEGACY OF STRENGTH AND FAMILY Chapman’s family story is one of triumph and loss, deeply rooted in Pensacola’s African American history. Her great-grandmother, born in 1887, lived in a cherished home on North Hayne Street, a hub of family memories and gatherings. That home, however, was lost to the construction of the interstate, displacing her family and severing physical ties to their legacy. In her story, “Uprooted,” published in “When Black Folks Was Colored: Volume Two” by the African American Heritage Society, Chapman recounts the pain of losing her family home while emphasizing the enduring legacy of those memories. She sheds light on a part of Pensacola’s history often overlooked: the vibrant neighborhoods sacrificed to urban development, erasing generations of heritage and community. THE POWER OF COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION Chapman reflected on her childhood in a close-knit Pensacola neighborhood, where families across 18 blocks supported and cared for each other like extended kin. “The homes in the neighborhood were bought or rented in the early 1900s, and for decades, the same family occupied those homes,” she said when recounting her story. “Children would leave and then come back to the same neighborhood, bringing with them new family members. Neighbors were friends, neighbors were family through childhood, through young adult, middle age and into old age.” The neighborhood was more than a place; it was a thriving community of interconnected lives. Churches, family stores and shared traditions strengthened bonds among residents. “Members of the same family lived next door, across the street, around the corner from each other, and it was hard to tell who was related to whom,” Chapman said. “Everyone in the neighborhood knew each other, and could tell you which child belonged to which family.” While these physical spaces have disappeared, Chapman continues to honor their spirit. She channels her experiences into educating others about the importance of community and connection. Her stories remind us that preserving our history is vital to understanding the sacrifices and contributions of those who came before us. BLACK HISTORY AND FAMILY HERITAGE Chapman’s reflections serve as a call to action, urging us to delve into our history and connect with our roots. She regrets not spending more time listening to the stories of her grandmother and mother, recognizing now the value of their wisdom. She encourages young people and families to seek out narratives of the past and take pride in their cultural identity. Chapman highlights the importance of resources like the “When Black Folks Was Colored” book series by the African American Heritage Society, which preserves stories of African American experiences. By reading these accounts, individuals can uncover a clearer vision of their future, rooted in the strength and lessons of their past. A BEACON OF RESILIENCE AND FAITH At the heart of Chapman’s life is her faith and commitment to empowering others. She uses her platform to educate, exhort and inspire, reminding us that understanding our shared history is key to preserving it. Through her reflections on the lost neighborhoods of Pensacola and her personal journey, Chapman encourages us to honor the legacy of those who came before us. By doing so, we can ensure their stories live on and continue to shape our communities for generations to come. An excerpt from Chapman’s story “Uprooted,” published in “When Black Folks Was Colored: Volume Two” by the African American Heritage Society:
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On Friday, April 4, 2025, the Beta Omicron Chapter of Omega Psi Phi, in collaboration with The African American Heritage Society, held a Que'Etic Justice: A Night of Poetry And Music Event at the Museum of Commerce.
| We had great attendance at the Books by the Bay Annual Book Festival! On Saturday, March 29, 2025, The African American Heritage Society Readers' Ensemble performed on the Museum Plaza Main Stage in the Downtown Historic District. Take a look at the highlights from this memorable weekend! |
BOOKS BY THE BAY - SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 2025 |
| The African American Heritage Society hosted a Black History Month Film Screening of Tyler Perry's "The Six Triple Eight" on Sunday, February 16, 2025.
The screening included a panel discussion consisting of U.S. Military Service Members - Active Duty and Retired; and Civil Service Members.
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BLACK HISTORY MONTH SCREENING - SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2025 |
African Americans and the Military
African Americans have served in EVERY war that the United States of America has been involved with throughout the history of the Country. The 4th of July highlights the establishment of the United States as an independent nation, throwing off its colonial chains, it also represents a unique dynamic that African Americans have with this nation as many members of the military consists of veterans of African descent date back to the American Revolution.
The Revolutionary War's first casualty was Crispus Attucks, a free black and indigenous soldier who died during the Boston Massacre. His life would later serve as an example of African American involvement in the founding of the U.S. by abolitionists.
Also during the American Revolution there are examples of African Americans serving in the U.S. military against its enemies. The 1st Rhode Island Regiment, also known as the “Black Regiment” was brought into the Revolutionary War in early 1778. They saw their first combat experience in the Battle of Rhode Island in August of 1778. Thanks to the Slave Enlistment Act it also freed all enslaved men who volunteered to join the “Black Regiment”. Compensation was paid to their former masters, and Washington was desperate for a boost to his forces.
During the Civil War, Frederick Douglas also spoke on this dynamic between formerly enslaved African Americans and the U.S. military, believing that African Americans could show their commitment to the United States by serving in its Armed Forces where allowed, as we would demonstrate our right to be free to those opposed to equal rights. He declared to formerly enslaved men “rise up in the dignity of our manhood, and show by our own right arms that we are worthy to be freemen.” in his piece “Men of Color to Arms! Now or Never!” Regrettably, Douglas's optimism was in vain as inequality continued and in some cases became worse when Veteran's of the various wars returned to their home states, and were forced back into an insupportable caste system.
From the American Revolution to the Civil War there are numerous examples of African Americans serving a country that didn’t recognize their freedom or citizenship. In the years after the Civil War there is also a deep history of African Americans continuing to serve in major conflicts like World War I and World War II. The latter of which created the dignity and gumption that fueled the Civil Rights Movement and led to some changes in the treatment of African Americans. From the American Revolution to the present African Americans have continued to fight for this nation on foreign soil while simultaneously fighting for their rights on American soil.
Permanent Exhibit ON DISPLAY NOW The African Presence in the Americas from the year 1492 - 1992 This exhibit was curated by the Schomburg Center for Research, a division of The New York Public Library. The exhibit chronicles the history of African American people, the history, culture, music, foodways, and contributions made to America since the year 1492. |
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Back due to Popular Demand - Our "More Complete American History" Exhibit
This exhibit explores a more complete history of America which includes Americans of African ancestry.
Onscreen now in the African American Heritage Society Gallery
Pensacola's Historic District at
200 Church Street
Pensacola, FL 32502
Stated in an address to the National Urban League in 1946:
"We must make every effort [to ensure] that the past injustice, violence and economic discrimination will be made known to the people."
"The taboo, the 'let's-not-talk-about-it' must be broken."
Albert Einstein
To learn more about Mr. Einstein's commitment to Social Justice
OPEN HOURS
Please visit our museum at 200 Church Street in Pensacola's Downtown Historic District
We are open:
Tuesday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Wednesday 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Thursday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Friday 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
We currently have 2 exhibits on display: "The African Presence in the Americas" and "A More Complete American History Exhibit".
For scheduling large group visits of 20 persons or more, please contact us at AAHSPensacola@gmail.com or call (850) 469-1456.
We are available to host group tours! To schedule a group tour of our Museum or the African American History Trail, email us at aahspensacola@gmail.com |
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Board of Directors
President - Angela McCorvey, Ph.D.
Dayle Hawthorn, M. D.
Rev. Edward Hayes
Chris Hendricks
Marion Williams, Ph.D,
Keya Wiggins, Ph.D.
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Co-Founder: Dr. Cheryl Howard
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FOUNDING CIRCLE MEMBERSHIP
Laurel Boyd, Ph.D.
Jim Boyd, M.D.
Saundra Daggs
The Late Leon Daggs
Dr. and Mrs. Lamont Canada
The Late Judge and Mrs. Howard Bennett
Dr. Lornetta T. Epps, Co-Founder
One Moment Please!
If you would like to see more programming like this, and those events that are listed above under our Chronological History and Record of Events, please click on membership to join us, or donate to make a contribution.
THE AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE SOCIETY IS A 501(C)(3) NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANIZATION.
Donations ID: CH2065 ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX-DEDUCTIBLE.
Our Events and Programs are Sponsored By:
