The Joliet Area African American Historic Context Study is underway to document the places, people, and events that are important to understanding the history and culture of the Joliet area’s Black community. As part of this project, organizers are seeking photos, artifacts, and archival materials to expand the holdings on Joliet’s Black history. The context study will include traditional historical research as well as input from the Joliet area African American community. The study is meant to provide an in-depth history into the life of African Americans in the Joliet communities to the late 20th century.
Do you, or someone you know, have recollections of places, people, or events that are significant to understanding the region’s Black history? We want to hear from YOU!
On Saturday February 22, the Joliet Historical Museum is hosting a Community Collections Scan where they will scan artifacts quickly and easily from the community as well as take any historical information attendees have to share. All memorabilia will be returned or be considered for donation. City Planner Jayne Bernhard received approval from the City Council, February 2024 and the context study was underway. The study will include Joliet Township and Fairmont in Lockport Township communities and is funded by the City of Joliet with the financial support of Joliet Township, Lockport Township, Will County, and the State of Illinois. The expected completion date is early 2026.
The FREE event begins at 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. At 11:30 a.m. that day, attendees can also attend H’Aeneise Coopwood’s presentation, “History in Our Hands: Agency and the Preservation of Black History in Joliet, IL. visit the project website to sign up for updates and to contribute information: www.joliet.gov/blackhistory. To leave a voicemail, text at (708) 683-9121, or email at blackhistory@joliet.gov.
The Joliet Museum is located at 204 N. Ottawa St. in downtown Joliet. Free parking is available at the Museum’s parking lot at Webster and Ottawa Streets.
