African-American Heritage

According to the 2000 U.S. Census, African-Americans make up almost 30 percent of the Richmond Region. The historical contributions of African-Americans are recognized at a variety of sites throughout the Region. Some suggestions include:

Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church - This Jackson Ward church was organized in 1867 by the Rev. John Jasper, a former slave and nationally-celebrated preacher, who is best known for his 1878 sermon "De Sun Do Move." His sermon, later delivered more than 250 times including before the entire Virginia General Assembly, was an attempt to prove through biblical references that the sun revolves around the earth.

Jackson Ward - This 40-block neighborhood and one of the Region's National Historic Districts was known as the Harlem of the South from the 1920s through 1960s. Don't miss the Bill "Bojangles" Robinson statue, located at the site of Richmonds first traffic light, which was donated by Robinson for the community's safety.

Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site - Honor the life of Maggie L. Walker, the first woman to charter and serve as president of a bank in the United States, at this National Park Service site. The site includes her residence of 30 years, restored to its 1930s appearance, and a visitor center detailing Walker's life and the Jackson Ward community in which she lived and worked.

Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia - The museum houses artifacts and records commemorating the lives and accomplishments of African-Americans with a focus on Virginia. The museum is located in historic Jackson Ward, known as the Harlem of the South in the first part of the 20th century.

Maymont - Between 1893 and 1925, the grand home of James and Sallie Dooley was maintained as an elegant showplace by its domestic employees. At any time the Dooley's employed seven to 10 employees - nearly all African-American. Step into the early 20th century with, In Service and Beyond, an exhibition of Maymont's fully restored kitchen, wine cellar, laundry, butler's bedroom, maids' bedroom, butler's pantry and other service areas.

Annual Festivals
Depending on when you visit, you might be able to explore one of the many cultural festivals celebrating African-American heritage. Some of these events include Fridays at Sunset (May-August), Juneteenth (June), Down Home Family Reunion (August), Second Street Festival (October) and Capital City Kwanzaa Festival (December).

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