Author: Dickerson, Amina J.

Publication Year: 1987

Media Type: Periodical (article)

Summary:

This article examines aspects of the history of African-American museums as well as some of the organizational challenges they will face in preparing for the new century.

Abstract:

This article examines aspects of the history of African-American museums as well as some of the organizational challenges they will face in preparing for the new century.

The tangible evidence of a culture is seen in its values and beliefs and reveals its potential for further development. Our understanding of cultural traditions nurtures their continuity. The study of objects enables us to learn, to enlighten, to create and to grow.

A large number of research libraries, archives, historical societies, geneology groups, and black museums share as a common purpose the collection and preservation of material that represents the history and cultural heritage of African Americans. It is their responsibility to provide a true picture of a history that has been continuously and, in many instances, purposefully, neglected over time. Since the establishment of the College Museum at Hampon Institute in 1868, some 150 institutions in thirty-seven states have served this mission, operating against considerable odds toi document the cultural heritage of African Americans. As A group, development of these museums has often been constrained by the lack of appropriate resources. This in turn has affected their patterns of organizational development.

CONTENTS
The emergence of African-American museums.
Early collecting efforts.
The impact of the civil rights movement.
Challenges in development.
The role of the mission statement.
The impact of the mission statement on collections development.
Collections management and development.
The role of the Board of Trustees.
Education in Black museums.
Staffing.
Funding and fiscal stability.
Summary.

Arts & Intersections:

Categories: Cultural Diversity