DuSable African American Museum celebrates 65th anniversary

The oldest African American museum in the country continues its legacy of showcasing Black history and culture.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The DuSable African American Museum in Chicago is celebrating its 65th anniversary on Presidents Day 2026. As the oldest African American museum in the country, the museum is focused on inspiring the next generation to continue its mission of preserving and sharing Black history and culture. The museum has evolved from its beginnings in the home of Dr. Margaret T. Burroughs to become a renowned institution that rivals museums across the country.

Why it matters

The DuSable Museum's 65-year history represents an important milestone in the preservation and celebration of African American history and culture. As one of the few spaces dedicated to this purpose, the museum plays a vital role in educating the public and inspiring younger generations to connect with their heritage.

The details

The museum was founded in 1961 as the Ebony Museum of Negro History and Art, before being rebranded in 1968 as the DuSable Museum of African American History. Over the decades, it has grown into a renowned institution that showcases the contributions and experiences of African Americans. The museum's latest exhibit, "Paris in Black," is the latest in a series of installations aimed at reinspiring families to support the museum's mission.

  • The DuSable African American Museum was founded in 1961.
  • The museum was rebranded as the DuSable Museum of African American History in 1968.
  • The museum is celebrating its 65th anniversary on Presidents Day 2026.
  • The "Paris in Black" exhibit is open for at least another 18 months.

The players

DuSable African American Museum

The oldest African American museum in the country, founded in 1961 and focused on preserving and sharing Black history and culture.

Dr. Margaret T. Burroughs

The founder of the museum, which was originally housed in her home and known as the Ebony Museum of Negro History and Art.

Allfred Anderson

A museum visitor who first visited the museum as a child when it was located in Dr. Burroughs' home.

Faith Bayliss

Allfred Anderson's 9-year-old granddaughter, who was visiting the museum for the first time.

Dilla Thomas

The DuSable Museum's brand ambassador.

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What they’re saying

“It was valuable for me to learn it, you know, and it gives you a sense of who you are.”

— Allfred Anderson (abc7chicago.com)

“In 1961, there wasn't a place for African Americans to go see themselves in a positive light. The purpose of this institution is to show us that we've always had everything that we needed.”

— Dilla Thomas, DuSable Museum brand ambassador (abc7chicago.com)

“We are in a time where people are not really excited about Black history, and I think that having our 65th birthday on Presidents Day just speaks volumes as to the strength and the support and the magnitude of the museum.”

— Wendy Williams (abc7chicago.com)

“Listen to the song by James Brown, 'I'm Black and I'm Proud'.”

— Faith Bayliss (abc7chicago.com)

What’s next

The "Paris in Black" exhibit at the DuSable African American Museum is open for at least another 18 months, allowing visitors to continue exploring the museum's rich history and cultural offerings.

The takeaway

The DuSable African American Museum's 65-year milestone is a testament to the enduring importance of preserving and celebrating African American history and culture. As the oldest institution of its kind in the country, the museum continues to inspire and educate new generations, ensuring that the stories and contributions of Black Americans are not forgotten.