The Image of African Americans in Virginia

Baggage Train by Winslow Homer

Lithograph

African Americans participated in the Civil War in many ways. At least 200,000 black soldiers served in the United States Colored Troops. Many others worked in non-combatant positions. Winslow Homer’s Campaign Sketches captures a seemingly private moment between two teamsters sharing a smoke.

Since 1619 the presence of African Americans in Virginia has been constant yet ever-changing. Through pictorial representations found in advertising, illustrations, prints, paintings, prints, and photographs, and sculpture this exhibition explores the range of The African American Image in Virginia. Behind the variety of artifacts and objects are stories that help us understand and appreciate Virginia’s rich culture and history.

The images include positive depictions, benign and vicious stereotypes as well as realism and afro-centric and sympathetic renderings. The exhibition concludes with 21^st century representations which have enriched our public spaces and expanded our understanding of Virginia and American history

This exhibition, The Image of African Americans in Virginia, will be on view through December 30, 2009. The Virginia Historical Society is open six days a week: 10-5 Tuesday though Saturday and 1-5 on Sundays. We are open to the public with admission Tuesday through Saturday and FREE on Sundays. Please stop by and visit.