Our history

About The African American Museum

The African American Museum of Southern Illinois is the vision of Co-Founders, Milton and Corene McDaniel of Carbondale, IL. In 1997, this vision was supported by a group of family, friends and community members who were invited to establish the Southern Illinois Achievers, Since its inception, the museum has been housed inside the University Mall in Carbondale and has provided a number of signature programs and services to the community. This includes the Learned Wednesday Summer Enrichment Program, Santa in the Park and the annual Juneteenth Celebration. The museum currently operates on the dedication of its Board of Directors and generosity of volunteers.