Large grant will extend reach at Gastonia African American Museum

Gastonia’s African American Museum of History and Culture was awarded a $50,000 grant that Director Dot Guthrie says will help the museum buy display pieces they have long dreamed of collecting.

According to Guthrie, the new items will allow the museum to create engaging new displays and further educate the community on the artistic and historical contributions made to society by African American citizens.

At a July 16 meeting the city moved to accept the grant from the North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management to help the museum with operating costs, rent, utilities, needed technology upgrades, or exhibits, according to city documents.

“With these funds, the African American Museum of History and Culture expects to expand its mission of providing visitors the opportunity to explore, examine, engage and encourage all to seek better understanding and deeper appreciation for the contributions made and achievements attained at the local, regional and national level,” it said.

Guthrie said in light of the grant, she has already placed an order for mannequin display cases that were previously out of reach for the museum due to cost.

The cases will allow the museum to display uniforms of those who served the country in battle and other significant clothing artifacts that were worn or designed by African Americans throughout history, she added.

Additionally, the museum will look to purchase more art from nationally renowned artists, a move that Guthrie said will help the museum continue to engage with audiences of all ages.

In the last six months, the museum has hosted groups of visitors virtually and in person for tours of the museum during Black History Month, held an event to celebrate Jackie Robinson Day, and an event for children to learn more about Juneteenth

The museum plans to continue hosting events and tours and providing educational opportunities to children and adults in the community, according to Guthrie.

“We are so excited for the opportunity,” she said.

This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Large grant will extend reach at Gastonia African American Museum