Fredericksburg, VA (February 2025) — The Fredericksburg Area Museum (FAM) is proud to honor Black History Month with a series of enriching programs, exhibits, and campaigns that celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of African Americans in the Fredericksburg region. Throughout February, FAM invites the community to join in a variety of programs being held at the museum and are designed to educate, inspire, and foster meaningful connections.

Featured Black History Month Programs:

  1. Book Talk with Justin Marlow
    • When: Wednesday, February 5, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
    • About: Join us for an engaging book talk with author Justin Marlowe as he discusses his book “Perfect Strangers.” Through candid anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, Justin delves into the challenges of growing up in an era still reverberating from the Civil Rights movement. This poignant memoir captures the dual narratives of Justin and his childhood best friend, Nicos, two African American adolescents navigating the complexities of suburban life in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Their stories explore the universal struggles of youth—romance, socialization, and mental health—against the backdrop of racial and class tensions. The intertwining experiences of Justin and Nicos reveal a nuanced portrayal of teenage confusion and family dynamics, offering a unique perspective on suburban black life. This is a FREE event open to the public.
  1. History on Wheels: African American Leaders
    • When: Saturday, February 8, 10:00am – 11:30am
    • About: The Fredericksburg Area Museum and Spotsylvania Public Schools invite families from all school districts to a special History on Wheels Pop up Learning Lab. Bring the whole family to explore FAM’s exhibits in a new light. Families will learn about local history through interactive hands-on activities and gallery guides. This special event welcomes all families and offers bilingual support to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience. The theme for February is African American Leaders: come learn about local African American leaders from business owners to doctors to teachers. Families will create their own protest signs inspired by the 1960 Fredericksburg sit-ins. This is a FREE event open to the public. Visit the FAM website to register. For more information, please contact Theresa Cramer at [email protected].
  1. Hidden Histories: A Community-Led Black History Month Walking Tour
    • When: Saturday, February 15, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
    • About: Featuring recent research gathered by Dr. Gaila Sims, FAM’s Curator of African American History and Vice President of Programs and Interpretation, this one-time-only program will be facilitated by local community historian Keith Strother. The tour will begin and end on the museum’s third floor and will run approximately one hour, showcasing stories of African American resilience, creativity, and struggle centered right in the heart of downtown Fredericksburg. This tour is FREE but a suggested donation of $10 is encouraged. Visit the FAM website to register. For more information, please contact Theresa Cramer at [email protected].
  1. A Space of Our Own: Black Women in Community
    • When: Thursday, February 20, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
    • About: This monthly program, curated by Dr. Gaila Sims, provides a welcoming space for Black women to share stories, network, and celebrate their legacy in the Fredericksburg area. Light refreshments, craft supplies, and conversation starters will be provided. Attendees are welcome to bring board games, puzzles, books, art-making materials, and snacks, if desired. Dress comfortably and bring your friends! Trusted allies are welcome, but this program prioritizes Black women’s needs and experiences. For more information, contact Dr. Gaila Sims at [email protected]. 
  1. For the Love of Fredericksburg: A Celebration of African American Enterprise
    • When: Saturday, February 22, 1:00pm – 2:00pm
    • About: Step into history and explore the enduring legacy of African American enterprise in Fredericksburg, Virginia, on this immersive walking tour presented by local history educator Tiya Shaw. This journey through the heart of Fredericksburg unveils the stories of local Black families who thrived in the face of adversity, building businesses, communities, and legacies that continue to shape the city’s identity. As you stroll through historic sites and landmarks, discover tales of resilience, ingenuity, and progress that highlight the prosperity and contributions of African Americans in Fredericksburg. From the early days of colonial life, through emancipation, and into the vibrant Black-owned businesses that fueled the local economy, this tour pays tribute to the strength and vision of those who made a lasting impact on their community. This tour is FREE but a suggested donation of $10 is encouraged. Visit the FAM website to register. For more information, please contact Theresa Cramer at [email protected].

Join Us in Preserving and Celebrating Fredericksburg’s Living Legacies!

In honor of Black History Month, the Fredericksburg Area Museum is excited to announce its Community Support Campaign for Living Legacies: African American History in the Fredericksburg Area, opening May 30, 2025. This groundbreaking exhibition will honor the African American community’s history, resilience, and contributions through interactive exhibits, community storytelling, and dynamic programming.

Your Support Will Fund:

  • Interactive exhibits connecting past and present
  • Community programs fostering dialogue
  • An exhibition catalogue for future generations

Special Benefits for Donors:

  • Gifts of $50 or more receive a complimentary museum membership.
  • A gift of $50 or more OR a recurring gift of $10 per month gets your name added to the community thank you wall within the exhibit.
  • Donors who commit to recurring gifts will be entered into a drawing for exclusive prizes, including a private tour with Dr. Gaila Sims and an original artwork by Dr. Sims.

Join us in preserving and celebrating Fredericksburg’s living legacies. Your support is vital to making this exhibition a reality. For more information, please visit our website.

Join Us in Celebration
FAM is committed to creating opportunities for the entire community to come together and honor the profound legacy of African Americans. We encourage everyone to participate in these programs, share their stories, and learn from the diverse experiences that continue to shape our city. For more information, visit www.famva.org or follow us on social media.

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