Exploring the Roots of African American History in Southern Arizona

The Inspiring Beginnings

In 2022, Beverly Elliott faced an unexpected challenge: her grandson, Jody, was delving into local history for a Black History Month project. His quest was simple yet profound: to learn about significant African American figures from Southern Arizona. However, Elliott quickly found a troubling absence of resources. “You should start a museum,” Jody suggested, planting a seed that would grow into an enduring legacy.

The Birth of a Vision

Today, that vision has materialized into the African American Museum of Southern Arizona. Co-founded by Elliott, the museum stands as a beacon of knowledge and culture, dedicated to preserving the rich tapestry of African American history in the region. Partnering with the University of Arizona’s Department of History, the museum aims to create a dynamic learning environment that not only honors past contributions but also inspires future generations.

Engaging the Next Generation

Over the upcoming 2024 and 2025 fall semesters, the museum is collaborating with the university’s History 102 course, “Tucson Matters: Making History with Community Museums.” Under the guidance of Professor Katherine Morrissey, students embark on a journey of discovery, focused on unearthing overlooked stories and cultural contributions of African Americans in Southern Arizona.

Morrissey emphasizes a unique approach to research, saying, “When people think of undergraduate research, they often imagine hands-on work in a science laboratory. In history, we approach research differently: the archives become our history lab, and so does the community.”

Discovering Local History

Students participating in History 102 set off on field trips to various museums, archives, and community spaces across Tucson. They work closely with archivists and librarians, honing their skills in handling historical documents and interpreting primary sources. This hands-on experience fosters a deep connection to the material, imbuing their research with a sense of purpose and relevance.

One memorable visit during the fall 2025 semester was to the Dunbar Pavilion, a cultural center that was once a segregated school for African Americans. This site plays a crucial role in the community’s history and serves as a poignant reminder of both challenges and triumphs.

Focused Research Groups

Throughout the semester, students form research groups, diving into specific areas of under-researched local African American history. Guided by the insights of community members, including Elliott herself, these groups set out to explore various topics.

Elliott reflects on this collaborative effort: “At the end, students come back to present their research findings to us. Now, we can use their research and compile it into exhibits or collections to share with the public.” This continuous feedback loop enriches the educational experience for both students and community members.

Notable Research Contributions

One impactful contribution from the students helped inform an exhibit on Cathay Williams, a formerly enslaved woman who made headlines by disguising herself as a man to enlist in the U.S. Army. Her story exemplifies the strength and resilience of African Americans throughout history, providing a powerful narrative for the museum’s visitors.

Another group focused on the Beau Brummel Club, a cultural hub in Tucson, helping to establish connections between local African American entertainment venues and broader community spaces. This type of research is vital; it helps contextualize the African American experience within a wider framework of social and cultural development.

Additionally, research into African American barbershops revealed their roles not just as places for grooming but as essential economic anchors and community centers within their neighborhoods. The significance of these establishments underscores their impact on local economies and social networks.

Uncovering Hidden Networks

Another fascinating topic explored was Green Book sites, which mapped safe travel locations for African Americans during the era of segregation. By documenting Tucson’s participation in these national travel networks, students uncovered stories that resonate deeply with historical significance and contemporary relevance.

Research on Mansfield Park, renamed in honor of civil rights leader Doris J. Thompson, brought to light the ongoing cultural evolutions in the community and the importance of remembering those who paved the way for progress.

Fostering Lifelong Learning

Director of the museum, Nikieia Johnson, reflects on the broader implications of this teaching method: “This teaching approach also creates lifelong learners.” The course is designed not only to educate students but also to cultivate informed civic participants who appreciate the complexities of history and its contemporary relevance.

Future iterations of History 102 plan to engage with other community museums, further expanding the scope of research opportunities available to students. As these partnerships evolve, the African American Museum of Southern Arizona is poised to remain a pivotal research partner, continually enriching the historical narratives of the region.

Through these collaborative efforts, both the museum and the university aim to ensure that the stories of African American history in Southern Arizona are not only preserved but also celebrated and integrated into the broader historical discourse.