Wednesday, February 3, 2016

Local Site of African American Memories



In keeping with the 2016 theme of African American History month of "Hallowed Grounds: Sites of African American Memories," here is more information about one of Berks County's historic sites: the Central PA African American Museum, located 119 North 10th Street in Reading. This site is

According to the museum's web site, it's mission is "To establish, preserve and maintain a collection of objects, artifacts, arts, papers, books, photographs, etc. that document and describe the history and culture of African Americans in the New World, with emphasis on our local and regional (Reading, Berks and surrounding counties) African American history and culture, and to create an appropriate environment for exhibition of the collection to foster understanding of the history and culture of Africans in the New World, and to encourage education and research. The Mission of the museum also includes the preservation of the Underground Railroad located on the lower level of the Old Bethel A.M.E. Church in Reading, Pennsylvania."

The museum is open Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Saturdays from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. and by appointment at other times. Admission is as follows: General admission-$8.00, seniors-$6.00, children 5 to 14-$4.00, and children under 4 free.