Mayborn Museum Announces Black History Month Programs 

Waco, TX — The Mayborn Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, is proud to announce an engaging lineup of programs celebrating Black History Month, including special story times, thought-provoking lectures, documentary screenings, and a compelling author talk and panel discussion. These events honor Black history, culture, and contributions while fostering meaningful community dialogue. 

The Mayborn Museum is excited to further explore Black history in Central Texas and celebrate Black voices through this programming. This serves as an inspiring prelude to our upcoming exhibition, Cultural Crossroads, opening in Spring 2026, which will feature a section dedicated to the Black community in Central Texas. This exhibition will examine the impact of this region's role in the global cotton economy, the legacy of enslavement, and the resilience of African American cultural traditions that flourished, despite oppression, and expanded after emancipation. 

“We are committed to bringing nationally recognized programs and exhibitions to our community,” said Charlie Walter, Director of the Mayborn Museum. “These events provide an opportunity to reflect on Waco’s rich and complex history, honor the voices of the Black community, and inspire meaningful conversations about the past, present, and future. We are honored to host such distinguished colleagues for these important events." 

As a Smithsonian Affiliate, the Mayborn Museum brings Smithsonian-quality programs and exhibits to Waco, enriching our community with meaningful, nationally recognized content. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with these powerful stories and honor the rich heritage of Black history. 

Events

Black History Month Story Time 

Date: February 3, 2025 
Time: 10:30 AM 
Families are invited to a special story time with Breshena Crosby from Baylor Theater! Crosby will read books that celebrate Black heritage and culture. 

Documentary Screening: Rising: The Hall of Negro Life 

Date: February 12, 2025 
Time: Reception at 5:30 PM, Screening at 6:00 PM 
Explore the legacy of The Hall of Negro Life, a groundbreaking exhibition at Fair Park that stood for just one year but left a lasting impact. The evening includes a Q&A with directors Lindell Singleton and King Hollis, moderated by Dr. Malcolm Foley. 
Audience: Teens & Adults 

Lecture: Traces of the Sacred with the Smithsonian’s Dr. Eric Williams 

Date: February 19, 2025 
Time: 6:00 PM 
Dr. Eric Williams, curator at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, presents insights from his Smithsonian exhibition Spirit in the Dark: Religion in Black Music, Activism, and Popular Culture. The lecture highlights the intersection of religion and Black cultural expression through photographs and artifacts. 
Audience: Teens & Adults 

Stories in the Shapes: Collage Art Workshop with Kemi Yemi-Ese

Date: March 1, 2025 at 10:00 AM

Join Nigerian-American visual artist and therapist Kemi Yemi-Ese, CRC, LPC, for an interactive collage-making workshop inspired by West African iconography. Participants will explore the cultural and historical significance of these symbols while using collage materials to create their own reflective art pieces. During this collective creative process, guests will be encouraged to consider the deep impact of depictions of cultural heritage and self-exploration.

Author Talk and Panel Discussion: God of Whirlwind 

Date: March 31, 2025 
Time: 6:00 PM 
Author Tyler Davis shares his book, God of Whirlwind, which explores faith, history, and justice through the stories of Black Wacoans. The evening includes a panel discussion with contributors Rev. Michael Babers and Linda Lewis, moderated by Dr. Stephen Sloan, followed by a dessert reception and book signing.  This special evening is presented in collaboration with Baylor University Press, Baylor Libraries, and the Mayborn Museum. 

All programs will take place at the Mayborn Museum and are open to the public. For more information contact Molly_Noah@Baylor.edu.