It’s the start of February, which means it’s the start of another Black History Month. I love this time of year because it’s a time that the entire nation seems to give a little more mention and appreciation to the African-Americans who have helped to change course and shape of the United Sates. It’s also a time that many fellow African-Americans reflect on our history, remember those who fought for our freedom, and celebrate how much our unique culture has had an impact on the identity of this country.
But with the current political climate and incidents, such as the one that took place in Charlottesville, Va. recently, it just seems as though this Black History Month should be celebrated differently—grandly. One thing I would suggest you do this month, especially if you have grade school-aged children who might need to be reintroduced to Black history and the understanding of our past, is to take a trip to a city that proudly puts our story on display. There are hundreds of museums and monuments all over the country that highlight the accomplishments of African-Americans, but if you’re looking to make a full trip out of the lessons, look into one of these cities as they provide a balanced mix of history, lodging options and culinary experiences.
Washington
I’m sure it would surprise very few to learn that Washington, D.C., as the capitol of our nation, is the home to dozens of monuments and museums that reflect on significant moments in American history. However, it may surprise people to learn just how many of those are dedicated to African-American history. Sprinkled throughout the city are nearly 20 structures that highlight different eras in Black culture and celebrate a variety of historical figures. One of the most important, and popular, is the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Located near the geographical center of the city, the Smithsonian opened this highly anticipated museum in late 2016. Since then, thousands of visitors have traveled to D.C. just to experience and explore more 600 years of raw, unfiltered African-American history. Here you’ll not only witness the struggles of slavery and the courage our forefathers who had to fight for freedom, but also witness how African-Americans have influenced business, medicine, science, sports and entertainment. You’ll need at least a day to even see everything throughout the five stories of the building. Not far from that museum you’ll find the National Museum of African Art, where authentic and traditional art, as well as modern and contemporary art, from the Motherland is displayed and celebrated. And located in West Potomac Park, next to the famed National Mall, you’ll find the towering statue of social activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. There’s also the Malcolm X Park, which hosted a variety of political demonstrations by activists such as Angela Davis, the Fredrick Douglas National Historic Site (the home of the famous abolitionist), the Lincoln Theatre located on Washington’s Black Broadway, and of course, Lincoln Memorial, where MLK gave his pivotal “I Have a Dream” speech. After spending the day meandering around museums, you could spend the evening at any of D.C.’s hot dinner spots and if you’re up for it, spend the night dancing at the local clubs.
Chicago
The city of Chicago is known for many things, yet Black History isn’t usually one of them. But this month is the perfect time to learn just how much Blacks helped to shape one of America’s greatest cities. Spend time exploring the Pullman Historic District,
an industrial town founded in the late 19th century as a model community for working-class people. Then you could spend the rest of the day getting lost in the DuSable Museum of African American History while admiring the work of influential and lesser-known Black artists. The museum was one of the first to be dedicated to the study and preservation of African-American history, culture and art. Of course, following your day of reflection, you could enjoy a night on the town at some of the world’s hippest restaurants and nightclubs.
Boston
The city of Boston is just about as historic as it gets in America. It is literally where America was established—where it was founded. And our Founding Fathers treated Boston as a capital, of sorts, in many ways. With all that history in its blood, it only makes sense that the city of Boston would hold just as much importance to Black History. This month take a trip to Boston to discover the historical sites there. The city is home to the Black Heritage Trial, a 1.6-mile walking trail (mostly) located within the famed Beacon Hill neighborhood. Stops on the trail include Robert Gould Shaw and Massachusetts 54th Regiment Memorial, George Middleton House, the Phillips School, John J. Smith House, Charles Street Meeting House, Lewis and Harriet Hayden House, John, Coburn House, Smith Court Residences, Abiel Smith School and the African Meeting House. After a full day of walking around Boston, you can warm up with some famous clam chowder at just about any restaurant.
Savannah, Ga.
As in most of the South, African-American history is embedded in the soul of Savannah. As one of the first stop for many newly captured Africans, Savannah served as the entry point for many slaves. The state’s tourism team has put together an easy to follow guide for self-guided tours on their website (see below for link) or you can take part in educational tours led by a local. On the list are churches, plantation homes, schools, cemeteries and museums—all of which can be explored in a weekend. You’ll enjoy taking in everything this charming city has to offer.
Megan Pinckney (@shadesofpinck) is a retired beauty queen turned lifestyle blogger who loves exploring the world and writing about it.
