The Hampton University Museum and Its Connection to Northeast Louisiana

Hampton University Museum

In 1868, just three years after the Civil War ended, the Hampton University Museum was founded in Hampton, Virginia. As the oldest African-American museum in the United States, it stands as a beacon of cultural preservation and education. Its mission: to document, celebrate, and elevate the contributions of African-Americans, Native Americans, and other cultures to our shared history.

Housed on the historic campus of Hampton University, the museum’s collection features African art, Native American artifacts, and the first institutional collection of works by African-American artists. Over the decades, it has become a vital resource for understanding the complex narratives that shape American culture.

Hampton University Museum today.

This pioneering institution set the standard for preserving African-American heritage, paving the way for museums across the country to follow. At the Northeast Louisiana Delta African-American Heritage Museum, we proudly carry forward this mission by focusing on the unique cultural narratives of the Delta region.

From art exhibitions to educational programs, we highlight the resilience and creativity of African-Americans in our corner of the South. Together, institutions like ours form a network of cultural preservation, ensuring that the stories of the past continue to educate and inspire future generations.

By supporting museums like ours, you help ensure these vital stories are preserved and shared for generations to come. Consider making a donation today. Every contribution helps us continue this important work.

We also invite you to visit the Northeast Louisiana Delta African-American Heritage Museum to experience the rich cultural legacy of our region firsthand.