The Evansville African American Museum sits in "Baptisttown", on the former location of the Lincoln Gardens housing development, dedicated by Eleanor Roosevelt in 1937.
In 1997 the Evansville Housing Authority (EHA) planned to demolish the housing development, and in August of that year, Sondra L Matthews (Editor and Publisher of Our Times newspaper) appeared before the EHA to request the preservation of a section of Lincoln Gardens for historical and educational purposes. She shared the personal impact Lincoln Gardens had on her and other Black families, and brought a group of former residents to meet with EHA's Executive Director John Collier. Together they explored the possibility of saving a building and creating an African American Museum.
In September 1997, a new non-profit corporation was founded, and an executive board formed with Ms. Matthews as President.
On January 19, 1999, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held and finally in December 1999 the museum was awarded 501(C)(3) status.
A preserved, furnished section of one of the original apartments showcases life during the era of the 1930s when Lincoln Gardens was built. The remainder of the building has been renovated into a modern museum serving to promote history, the arts, education programs, cultural events and festivals.
The museum showcases local artists, traveling and permanent exhibits, and contributing citizens of the past and present. It serves as a tourist destination for visiting organizations and groups, and the gallery can be reserved for private, community events and meetings. Museum revenue sources include membership contributions, grants, charitable gift legacies, admissions, facility rental, events, and a gift shop.
The Evansville African American Museum is a place for meeting, learning, celebration and discovery!