In addition to the new photographic display of Andrea Clark’s photographs, the Asheville Museum of History will host two public programs during Black History Month. Community Day, on Saturday, February 22nd from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, is a free event and will include activities for children and families with a special program with YMI Cultural Center Executive Director Rev. Sean Hasker Palmer on the history of Asheville’s Young Men’s Institute (YMI) from 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM. Originally founded in 1892, the YMI Cultural Center’s mission is to empower the Black community to celebrate its rich cultural heritage through programs that preserve and promote African American arts and traditions with a commitment to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion. Limited seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Then, join us on Tuesday, February 25th, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM for our monthly History Hour program series as local artist LaKisha Blount will present Echoes of Texana: The Families That Made It a Community. The presentation will explore the impact of Texana McClelland and other families in founding the largest African American community in the Smoky Mountains of North Carolina. As a descendant of Texana McClelland, the namesake of the Texana Community established in 1841, painter LaKisha Blount draws inspiration from her rich familial roots and the profound impact of her ancestors to create her art. This is an in-person event at the Asheville Museum of History; tickets are $10 general admission and $5 for Museum Members. There is also a limited no-cost community ticket available through the Museum’s Community Fund. Tickets are limited for in-person lectures, so don’t miss your opportunity to secure a spot!