The Harrison Museum of African American Culture

Along with my wife, I was just walking through the Center in the Square and decided to tour the Harrison Museum of African American Culture. It is not a terribly huge space but all the exhibits are very professional, educational, and tie directly to Roanoke history. I am not proud to say I usually browse museums lightly, but I found myself reading the exhibits completely. The David Ramey exhibit was in play and I could not get enough of it. It was an amazing education in the history of Roanoke's past exploring African-American life here, and showed aspects of neighborhoods and areas of the city long gone. The fact that it is shown through drawings and hand written pages from Ramey makes it all very real and in the moment. I think the museum runs on donations so be generous. I will definitely return.

Highly recommend for families with children who want to learn about the devastating effects of urban renewal on the African-American community of Roanoke. Admission is free.

My wife enjoyed visiting here. We were met with smiles and a short tour to show the different areas. Excellent local history museum with art as well.

This is an intimate glimpse at some of the heroic people who gave their lives so that Roanoke could have a thriving Black culture. The curator at this museum is simply wonderful. She's an ex principal and her knowledge of the growth and progression of Roanoke was out standing. Please check out the magnificent art and statues that she has along with the local black history.

Wonderful Museum! I truly enjoyed the oral history interviews.

The quilts, masks, and art were great to see. Love the displays and history lessons, but hate that the space is so small and you cannot take pictures. Glad I had the experience though.

Excellent place to go learn about African history and Roanoke City Black American History!!!

I was very disappointed by this museum. First, the entry fee is $8 and the museum is quite small. I am personally not interested in art, and there were only three little exhibits about history. The oral history interviews are closed at the moment due to COVID.

Love this place! Local artistry and local Roanoke history abound. I believe it had room to grow but would recommend it to anyone. Staff was great too.

Three different exhibitions going on at one time and all are interesting. Contemporary art with informative history made this a great way to spend part of an afternoon.