The Lorain Black History Collection

Photos can be scanned and returned to the donor.  We especially need pictures of churches, Black organizations, Black businesses and buildings that no longer exist.

This photo of Mr. Morton at the counter of his BBQ Restaurant on Elyria Ave was donated by his son.

Documents like event flyers, programs, old menus, journals,  meeting minutes, etc. often contain info that is useful to researchers and important to preserve.

This program is from the April 1967 Bell Dedication Ceremony at Second Baptist Church

We also collect textiles, like quilts, sports uniforms, unique fashion from an era or period, or items that belonged to famous members of the Lorain community.

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This uniform was donated by retired US Army Four Star General Johnnie E. Wilson

All kinds of objects can illustrate what life was and is like for Black people in Lorain.

The Ballard Brothers have been creating music in the Lorain community for decades.  Copies of their Signs of the Times album, which was recorded in 1981, were donated by Inez James and Barbara Ballard.