The Kinsey Collection

Last week I had the honor of attending the Opening Ceremony for “The Kinsey Collection” at the Atlanta History Center. Bernard and Shirley Kinsey have collected ” authentic and rare art, artifacts, books, documents and manuscripts that tell the often untold story of African American achievement and contribution.” The couple who have been married over 40 years began their collection after their son Khalil, who was school age at the time, took interest in their family tree. 

The next day I thought it were more than appropriate to bring my children back to view this rare display of art and African American History. It was a real treat for my family to speak with The Kinsey’s themselves, and talk all about their collection, in which some of the pieces date back to 400 years ago. 

 My children always have lots of questions to ask!

One of the oldest pieces on display was the “Earliest Known Black Marriage Record” dated 1598

 Some must see items on display at the Atlanta History Center include:

1. Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral, by Phillis Wheatley, 1773

2. Twelve Years a Slave, by Solomon Northup, edited by David Wilson, Auburn, New York, Derby & Miller first edition, 1853

3. Dred Scott Decision, 1857

4. Menimsha, 1941

5. Sky Poems, 1950

I was completely in awe of this collection of historic contributions. Not just African American history, but history that has shaped what we know as America today. 

 The collection will be on display at the Atlanta History Center until July 13, 2014. 

You can visit the Atlanta History Center for free!

Presented on the third full weekend (Saturday and Sunday) of each month, from April through June 2014, ALL guests to the Atlanta History Center receive FREE admission, including The Kinsey Collection exhibition. Admission also includes all History Center exhibitions, interactive experiences, explorations at Smith Family Farm and Swan House, and twenty-two acres of gardens and trails. 

I hope you are as impressed with The Kinsey Collection as I was! It’s a must see exhibit!