An Exhibit on African-Americans in the Lowell Area during the 20th Century

The African-American community in Lowell and the surrounding towns has had a presence here since the 1770s and has always been small but active. Although Lowell has had its share of prejudice and racism, it was for the most part welcoming to African-American citizens. Some Blacks called Lowell "a higher home" in comparison to the places that they came from down South or overseas. This exhibit traces some of the personalities and events that affected the African-American community and also illustrates how a small group was able to effect change: helping to pave the way by making Lowell a more hospitable place for other immigrants to come here.