Did you know the origins of Black History Month can be traced to Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood? In 1915, historian and author, Carter G. Woodson visited Chicago for the National Half Century Exposition and Lincoln Jubilee—a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. During the event, Carter joined in discussions with prominent scholars and advocates at the only African American‒serving YMCA in Chicago on Wabash Avenue to develop the framework for an annual event to honor the achievements of key historical figures. Today, we call this commemoration Black History Month!

Join the Chicago History Museum in exploring the Chicago origins of Black History Month! Connect with Bronzeville community advocacy organizations, get an up-close look at Bronzeville materials from CHM’s collections, and participate in a meet and greet with a reenactor of journalist and activist Ida B. Wells-Barnett!

To learn more and purchase museum tickets online ahead of your visit, click this link.