Wytheville Training School Cultural Center Celebrates a Century of Black History
A Special Exhibition Honoring African American Trailblazers
Invitation to the Community
Wytheville Training School Cultural Center Invites the Community to Celebrate a Century of Black History Commemorations
The Wytheville Training School Cultural Center warmly invites all members of the community to participate in a profound celebration of Black history, achievement, and resilience. As the nation reflects on 250 years of history, Carter G. Woodson—the father of Black history—encouraged the sharing of Black History commemorations. This year marks a significant milestone: 100 years of recognizing Black History. The Cultural Center, which is also home to the African American Heritage Museum, proudly unveils a special exhibit dedicated to African Americans who broke barriers and reshaped the American narrative.
This unique exhibit features a remarkable collection of artifacts, photographs, books, and historical materials that shed light on the extraordinary achievements of Black pioneers throughout the United States. Each display is crafted to showcase individuals who were the first to reach groundbreaking milestones in their respective fields—leaders whose bravery opened doors for future generations.
Lawrence Douglas Wilder: The first African American elected to statewide office in Virginia and the first to serve as Governor of the Commonwealth.
Mae Jemison: The first African American woman to travel into space, inspiring young scientists and dreamers everywhere.
Thurgood Marshall: The first African American Justice of the United States Supreme Court, whose legal expertise revolutionized the nation’s civil rights landscape.
Katherine Johnson: Taught at the Carnegie High School in Marion, Virginia, she was often called the “human computer.” Her calculations as a NASA employee were critical to the success of the first and subsequent U.S. space flights.
The stories of these and many other pioneers are interwoven throughout the exhibit, honoring the depth and breadth of Black excellence. Visitors will discover narratives of innovation, leadership, and perseverance that span education, science, politics, the arts, and public service.
Rooted in awareness and education, the mission of the Wytheville Training School Cultural Center is simple yet profound: to increase awareness and educate the community about the extraordinary contributions of African Americans whose achievements have shaped our shared history. By spotlighting these trailblazers, the Cultural Center continues its commitment to keeping history alive and empowering future generations with knowledge about those who dared to dream and make a difference.
As a historic institution founded in the legacy of African American education in Wythe County, the Wytheville Training School Cultural Center remains devoted to preserving stories that uplift, empower, and connect us all.
This is an invitation to Learn, Reflect, and Celebrate. The Wytheville Training School Cultural Center welcomes residents, families, students, and visitors to explore this inspiring exhibit. Whether you seek to learn something new, honor the past, or spark meaningful conversations, this celebration of Black history promises to be both educational and deeply moving. Together, let us commemorate a century of Black History by celebrating the individuals whose courage and brilliance helped shape America.
The exhibit is funded in-part by the Wythe-Bland Foundation. The Wytheville Training School Cultural Center is located at 410 East Franklin Street, Wytheville, VA 24382 and phone number is (276) 625-0042.