Andrew Young to visit Thomasville for exhibit chronicling his life

THOMASVILLE, GEORGIA - Thomasville Center for the Arts, in partnership with the Jack Hadley Black History Museum, is hosting the traveling exhibition "The Many Lives of Andrew Young" from Aug. 8 – Nov. 1, 2024. The exhibition chronicles the life of the Honorable Andrew Young – former Atlanta mayor, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, and Georgia’s former 5th District Representative.

In addition to showcasing an acclaimed civic leader throughout the state of Georgia and across the nation, the exhibition is especially special for residents of Thomas County.

In 1955, prior to his public service roles, Young accepted the pastorate at Bethany Congregational Church in Thomasville. A few years later, he served as pastor of Evergreen Congregational Church in Beachton, while simultaneously commuting to New York City working with the Youth Division of the National Council of Churches.

Jack Hadley remembers Young’s presence well.

“Meeting Rev. Andy Young at 17 at Vacation Bible School in 1953, I was deeply inspired by his humility and dedication,” says Hadley. “Years later, our paths crossed again in New York and at various events, each encounter reminding me of his enduring impact.”

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

Following those early beginnings as a minister in Thomasville, Young went on to become a civil rights hero, congressman, ambassador, mayor, philanthropist, and American icon.

“It’s a true honor to present the story of an inspirational life right here in our galleries,” says Center for the Arts executive director Erin Wolfe Bell.

The exhibition covers nine decades of Young’s inspiring life from his early childhood days in New Orleans to the incredible work he is doing around the world today through the Andrew J. Young Foundation.

Based on the book with the same title designed by Don Bermudez, with narrative by Atlanta Journal-Constitution reporter Ernie Suggs, Young's life in leadership is showcased in photographs and storytelling from Young’s very own words. The exhibition is curated by the National Monuments Foundation.

An opening reception will be held on Thursday, Aug. 8, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Thomasville Center for the Arts. Distinguished guests, including the Honorable Andrew Young, are scheduled to be in attendance. The opening is free and open to the public by registering online at thomasvillearts.org.

The exhibition will remain on view at the Center for the Arts through Nov. 1. Center galleries are open Tuesday – Friday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and 2nd Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Gallery admission is free. More programming and additional events in support of the exhibition will be announced in the fall.