Portsmouth Public Library and Black History Now presents Caribbean Dreaming, an opportunity to explore Caribbean Steel Drums through a historical and musical demonstration. Learn how drums were outlawed on many Caribbean islands and how they came to be made from steel. A unique sound and art form was created by politics. Learn how the people […]
The Portsmouth Public Library, Main Branch and Black History Now present an African American History Expo. Celebrate African American history and music featuring handcrafted items, music from Porte Towne Magic, and speaker Jack Gary, Director of Archaeology for the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Mr. Gary will discuss the excavations at the First Baptist Church in Williamsburg. The church […]
From “Anansi the Spider” to “Brer Rabbit,” traditional slave tales have hidden meanings that serve to educate and celebrate African American history. Storyteller Dylan Pritchett brings the early days of slavery to life through these tales that are wound tightly with themes of family strength and morals as well as lessons that teach about character […]
Learn about the quilt making tradition in African American culture and the artistry of the quilts of Gee’s Bend. Participants will then make a Gee’s Bend inspired quilt wall hanging using hand-sewing techniques. Open to ages 12 and up. Registration is required. Call 757-393-8501 or email whitela@portsmouthva.gov for registration or more information.
Bobby BlackHat brings together the finest blues musicians to perform original, contemporary, and classic blues tunes that will keep your toes tappin’, fingers poppin’, and hips shakin’ all night long.
Ages 3-12. Drop in at the Main Library to participate in a Black History inspired edition of our Super Science Program. Learn about a famous scientist and participate in a cool experiment based on that scientist’s work.
Drop in to join us as we celebrate our 2023 Black History Month honorees, Madeline Ashby and Aubrie Greene. We will be decorating cupcakes and making lemonade as we learn more about their business! Call 757-393-8501 for more information.
Join Porte Towne Magic for a celebration of African American music at 2:00. At 3:00 Greg Eatroff will discuss the role African-American soldiers and sailors played in the American Civil War, with particular emphasis on the role of “USCTs” in operations in and around Hampton Roads, from the Petersburg siege lines to the coastal fortifications […]
Featuring Local Authors from around Hampton Roads
Learn about the use of color and geometry in African American Art and quilting. Afterwards, participating will hand sew a quilted t-shirt inspired by the artists! Registration required. Open to ages 12 and up. Call 757-393-8501 or email whitela@portsmouthva.gov for registration or more information.
Come hear the stories of Portsmouth’s earliest African Americans in music and narrative. 2pm | Porte City Magic Orchestra and Choir 3:15pm | Lift Every Voice: Narratives and music highlighting fascinating stories of early African American citizens of Portsmouth. Includes performances by Julie Dunn and Aisha McCollum. Don’t miss this entertaining and inspiring Black History […]
Kids of all ages are invited to dance across the continents with Rita Cohen. Explore and join in dances from Africa, South America, Europe and North America. As the founder and artistic director of the Tidewater African Cultural Alliance (TACA), Rita works to bring African culture to Hampton Roads. Don’t miss this fun and educational […]