News Summary
The Burritt Museum in Huntsville is set to unveil its latest exhibit titled “History Lives On: Preserving Alabama’s Rosenwald Schools” on January 28, 2025. This exhibit, running until May 2025, will highlight the pivotal role of Rosenwald Schools in providing education to African American children in the South. Developed through a collaboration between Auburn University and the Alabama Department of Archives, the exhibit explores the historical legacy and community efforts to preserve these important educational institutions.
Exciting New Exhibit Coming to Huntsville!
Mark your calendars, everyone! On January 28, 2025, the Burritt Museum in Huntsville will unveil an extraordinary exhibit titled “History Lives On: Preserving Alabama’s Rosenwald Schools.” This exciting event will run through May 2025, giving plenty of time for you to immerse yourself in the rich history of these vital educational institutions.
A Fascinating Partnership in Education
This upcoming exhibit is brought to you by a wonderful partnership between Auburn University’s College of Architecture, Design, and Construction and the Alabama Department of Archives. They’re sharing valuable insights into the amazing contributions made by educational pioneers Julius Rosenwald and Booker T. Washington. Their efforts dramatically changed the educational landscape for African American children in the South during the early 20th century.
What Were Rosenwald Schools?
Rosenwald Schools were part of an incredible initiative that constructed over 5,000 schools for more than 600,000 students between 1913 and 1932. This program was especially impactful in providing rural African American children with a clean and nurturing learning environment, focusing on both industrial and home economics. These schools not only offered education but opened doors to brighter futures for many children living in underserved communities.
Community Efforts To Preserve History
The exhibit will also shine a light on how local communities played a vital role in funding these educational projects. For instance, in Alabama, special efforts are underway to restore historic Rosenwald schools, such as the Pickensville Rosenwald School. This school is one of the few remaining examples and has seen passionate restoration efforts led by families who attended the school and local alumni who are deeply committed to preserving its history.
Many historians and community members are hard at work documenting the rich stories these schools hold and the culture they fostered. With ongoing funding efforts, including community donations and grants, there’s a hopeful push to ensure these beloved buildings remain part of Alabama’s legacy.
A Legacy Worth Remembering
Historical accounts emphasize how Rosenwald Schools provided essential educational opportunities for a significant number of Black children in the South while also highlighting the challenges they faced with desegregation. Even today, historical markers and exhibits in existing buildings honor the memory of past educators and the lasting legacies of these schools. They truly represent a community’s significant contribution toward educational equity in Alabama and the South.
Visit the Exhibit!
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore this remarkable exhibit! General admission to the Burritt Museum includes access to the “History Lives On” exhibit, along with other exciting attractions. The museum invites visitors on Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 AM to 4 PM in March and extends the hours from 9 AM to 5 PM from April to May, with Sunday hours from 12 PM to 5 PM.
Admission prices are as follows:
- Adults: $12
- Children & Students: $8
- Seniors (60+) & Military: $10
- Children aged 2 and under: FREE
- Burritt Members: FREE (tax added to all rates when purchased)
Join the Celebration of Education
So, gather your friends and family and plan a visit to the Burritt Museum this spring! This enlightening exhibit promises to resonate with visitors of all ages, reminding us of the impactful legacy of the Rosenwald Schools and the ongoing efforts in our communities to protect and celebrate our history.
You won’t want to miss this chance to learn about Alabama’s contribution to educational equity and the spirit of resilience in our communities!
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Additional Resources
- Rocket City Mom: History Lives On Exhibit
- AL.com: Saving Alabama’s Rosenwald Schools
- Alabama Reporter: National Park Service Awards
- Garden & Gun: See the Rosenwald Schools
- Forward: Inside the Hidden History of Rosenwald Schools
- Wikipedia: Rosenwald Schools
- Google Search: Rosenwald Schools
- Google Scholar: Rosenwald Schools
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rosenwald Schools
- Google News: Rosenwald Schools
