DuSable Museum of African American History
Chicago, IL 60637
Phone: (773) 947-0600
- Directions:
- Bus: 3,4 and 55 to 56th.
- Hours:
- Tue-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 12pm-5pm
Editorial Review for DuSable Museum of African American History – by Fred McKissack
The Scene
Chicago's first non-Native American resident was a black fur trader named Jean-Baptiste Point du Sable who settled along the banks of the Chicago River in 1779. Even so, many are still unaware of the museum that bears his name.
The Details
Founded in 1961 by Margaret T. Burroughs, it's the first museum in the country to focus on the contributions of African-Americans. Today you can find 13,000 pieces of artistic and anthropological treasures in the permanent collection, including original slave documents, art from the 19th and 20th centuries, the photography collection of Pulitzer Prize winner John Tweedle, and a permanent exhibit on former Mayor Harold Washington. It's housed in a neoclassical building and surrounded by beautiful Washington Park. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum holds several major exhibitions, workshops, lectures, poetry readings, concerts, film series and art festivals throughout the year.
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoThe museum's store carries a selection of coffee mugs featuring the likeness and history of Shaka Zulu, an African warrior, and brightly colored hats and clothing trimmed in kente cloth.
The ExtrasThe Kraft Children's Theater is one of the museum's treasures and features dance performances and workshops.
User Reviews for DuSable Museum of African American History
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