California African American Museum050

The California African American Museum is dedicated to collecting and preserving information and artifacts that celebrate African-American contributions to the history and culture of this country.

The twenty-five year old Museum is the authority on African American history in the Western United States, providing research and educational materials to thousands of visitors every year.

The permanent collection contains millions of letters, photographs, documents, oral histories, garments and artifacts, all of which help visitors understand the devastating impact of slavery on African Americans, as well as some other aspects of the African American experience in this country. One example is their role in settling the American west, as demonstrated by the all-Black townships that dotted the frontier in the nineteenth century, and huge numbers of black-owned businesses and farms that helped build California.

Tours are available for groups of ten or more. Call ahead for reservations: 213.744.2077. Adults pay $3, Children under 17 pay $2.

Membership includes invitations to special events and workshops as well as five free parking passes to the Museum parking lot and a subscription to the Museum publication, including its calendar. Family membership is $75.

Check the website for information about monthly family workshops, special events, and summer programs.