About the Museum
Preserves and celebrates African American heritage in central Illinois. Features exhibitions on the Underground Railroad, Springfield's Black community, the 1908 Race Riot, civil rights era, and cultural achievements. Research resources available for genealogists and historians.
The 1908 Springfield Race Riot Exhibit
The museum's signature exhibition, "Something So Horrible: Springfield 1908 Race Riot," occupies the largest gallery space and tells the crucial story of the violent racial disturbances that erupted over three days in August 1908. This pivotal event in American history directly contributed to the founding of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in 1909. The exhibit includes historical figures connected to Abraham Lincoln's circle and reveals a chapter of Springfield's history that many residents and visitors are unaware of. In 2024, President Biden designated the site as the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument, recognizing its national significance.
Museum Expansion and New Interpretations
The museum received a $74,878 Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) Inspire! Grant for Small Museums in 2024 to develop an updated interpretation of the 1908 Race Riot for permanent installation. This two-year project builds on comprehensive research and creates an experience that allows visitors to understand the factors leading to the riot, hear personal stories of those who experienced it, and examine how the event continues to affect contemporary life. The exhibit development is based on extensive community conversations and focus groups, ensuring authentic and meaningful storytelling.
Located at 1440 Monument Avenue near Oak Ridge Cemetery, the museum attracts many visitors to Lincoln's Tomb who discover this important history for the first time. The museum's expansion creates more space for interactive exhibitions, authentic storytelling, and community building, with improved digital content designed to engage diverse audiences in exploring African American heritage in central Illinois.
What to See
- The signature 1908 Springfield Race Riot exhibit, the museum's largest gallery
- Exhibitions on Springfield's Black community and central Illinois African American life, past and present
- Programming on civil rights history and cultural achievements
- Research resources for genealogists and historians
- Connections to the nearby Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument
Planning Your Visit
The museum is located at 1440 Monument Avenue, Springfield, IL 62702, near Oak Ridge Cemetery and Lincoln's Tomb, and can be reached at (217) 391-6323. According to the museum, general admission hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 12 PM to 4 PM, and visitors are strongly encouraged to donate in lieu of an admission fee. Special events and private guided tours can be arranged outside general hours by contacting the office. Confirm current details before visiting on the official website at spiaahm.org.
Explore Illinois's Historical Landscape
Use the When It Was app to discover historical businesses, landmarks, and buildings throughout Illinois. See how your community has transformed over the decades.
Explore When It Was →