Black History Month is integral to understanding the complete history of the United States — and that goes for Jacksonville too. From world-class physicians to athletic icons to progressive minds championing equality for all people, many Black Americans have had a profound impact on Jacksonville. This Black History Month, uncover the stories of the figures who shaped our community and helped advance not just Morgan County, but America through courage and leadership.
Visit the Jacksonville African American Museum
Located in one of Jacksonville’s historic Underground Railroad sites, the Asa Talcott House, home of the Jacksonville African American History Museum spotlights the many contributions of Black Americans throughout history. This includes sharing the stories of Jacksonville natives like Dr. Alonzo Kinniebrew — the first Black doctor in the country to own and operate his own hospital and a personal physician to Booker T. Washington — and boxing champion Ken Norton, who famously won a split-decision bout against Muhammad Ali and is recognized as one of the greatest athletes in the history of Jacksonville High School.
Throughout the month of February, the museum will offer special hours, opening 2-4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8, and 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21. This is an extraordinary opportunity to explore exhibits and discover local stories that give a deeper understanding of Black history.
Attend the Freedom Seeking Convention
Join a powerful learning experience during the Freedom Seeking Convention: Pathways to Resilience, Reckoning, and Remembrance from Feb. 6-7 at Illinois College. This hybrid conference (in-person and online) is hosted by the Illinois Network to Freedom Collective and invites meaningful conversations, new research, and opportunities to engage with and immerse in the stories of freedom seekers, as well as the networks that supported them.
Tour Woodlawn Farm
Established in 1824 by Michael Huffaker, Woodlawn Farm played an integral role in helping people escape the chains of slavery on the Underground Railroad. The farm will host an open house from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, inviting guests to learn more about the history of the site and the Underground Railroad. Experience one of the city’s unique, historic treasures and its contributions to freedom and equality.
Take a Self-Guided Underground Railroad Tour
For those escaping slavery, Jacksonville became a haven for freedom seekers, as well as sympathetic abolitionists who not only advocated against slavery in academic and legal halls but provided aid and refuge as well. Today, the City of Jacksonville recognizes nine locations as stops on the Underground Railroad, the organized, secretive network of routes and homes that helped formerly enslaved people escape to free territories in the North and Canada.
Many sites in Jacksonville still stand today as private residences, while others like Woodlawn Farm and the Asa Talcott House exist as museums dedicated to Black history and the underground railroad. Download our Underground Railroad brochure and tour each site. Marvel in the stories contained within the walls of each location, and in doing so, honor those who risked their lives for the sake of freedom and liberty.
The City of Jacksonville boasts an extraordinary, rich history with some of the best-kept secrets in Central Illinois. Learn more about historical sites in Jacksonville and plan a memorable, eye-opening trip today