Orange African American Museum is discussing fundraising ideas for the next step needed to open the doors – sheetrock.
“Once we get the sheetrock in, we have someone ready to install the dropped ceilings,” Founder and President Henry Lowe said.
Right now, the organization is in need of $532 for sheetrock and $100 more for items needed to install the walls. Volunteers have already stepped up to install the sheetrock once the supplies are purchased.
“We want to be able to tell the history of African Americans and help school districts educate students,” Lowe said.
He describes the museum as a people museum because people are the ones who made the history.
People such as Bessie Coleman, the first female and first black aviator and first Native American female pilot, was in Orange, Texas twice during her short life. Born in Atlanta, Texas on January 26, 1892, Coleman heard about French women were allowed to fly plans when her brothers returned home from serving in France during World War 1.
Bubba Smith is another person whose story will be told. Born Charles Aaron Smith in Orange, Texas, he went on to play professional football, inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, played in two Super Bowls, two Pro Bowls and became an actor.
“We have so many that accomplished so much,” Lowe said. “Essie Bellfield was the first African America Mayor in Orange. Velma Jeter, Kevin Smith, Langston Hughes, they all have a story to tell.”
While there is a National Museum of African American History and Culture, there are many others across the country highlighting local accomplishments.
“There is not another African American Museum within 200 miles of us,” Lowe said.
Exhibits featuring Sports, Music, Education, Military Service and more are planned for the museum.
“We want to tell the story of the evolution of the community of blacks in Orange,” Lowe said.
To make a donation to the organization, visit https://oaam.info/
The museum is located at 404 W. Park Ave in Orange, Texas.
-Dawn Burleigh, KOGT-
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