Things to do during Black History Month
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ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Black History Month is all of February. Albany and the surrounding area have several things to do including landmarks to visit and events to attend.
Date and Time: Feb. 11 and 25 from 1-4 p.m.
Location: 112 N Front St.
The Freedom Singers, including original Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) member Rutha Harris, will be under the overlook behind the Albany Welcome Center to lift spirits with songs and storytelling.
9th Annual Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Festival
Date and Time: Feb. 18 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Location: 214 Alexander St.
The Buffalo Soldiers Heritage Festival is hosted by the Jack Hadley Black History Museum in Thomasville.
The festival will feature a reenactment of the trial of Lt. Henry O. Flipper, the first Black graduate of West Point and a Buffalo Soldier, performed by Eugene Wilson. Additionally, Dr. Davis Houck from Florida State University will be sharing the history and story of Fannie Lou Hammer, one of the most influential leaders of the Civil Rights movement.
Admission is free and there will be free food, snacks and other amenities.
Black Business and Organizations Expo
Date and Time: Feb. 24 at 3 p.m.
Location: 1020 S. Gaskin Ave.
The Black Businesses and Organizations Expo in Douglas is a free event open to the public. Black entrepreneurs, motivational speakers, youth leaders and more are invited to showcase their products and service to the community.
For more information, contact jessica.williams@coffee.k12.ga.us or shenice.evans@coffee.k12.ga.us.
Location: 326 W. Whitney Ave.
The Albany Civil Rights Institute (ACRI) features interactive exhibits showcasing Southwest Georgia under the Jim Crow laws. The museum’s oral database has real-life stories from people who lived through this time and fought against segregation. Tickets are $6 for adults and $5 for students and seniors 65+.
Bridge House and Welcome Center
Location: 112 N. Front St.
The Bridge House is a historic house built by former slave-turned-engineer Horace King. The wooden bridge crossed the Flint River and the house now serves as Albany’s Welcome Center.
Location: 916 Front St.
The plaza features a life-size sculpture of Ray Charles seated at a Baby Grand piano that rests on a rotating pedestal. The pioneering soul musician’s songs will play at timed intervals. Take a seat on one of the benches to relax and enjoy the music.
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