African Americans have significantly shaped our history, yet their contributions are often overlooked. Here are just a few African American sites important in our region, all just a day trip from Memphis!

Alex Haley Museum and Interpretive Center

The museum promotes the legacy of Alex Haley and features his grandfather’s home on-site. Learn more.

Tent City Historical Marker

The Tent City marker tells the story of Black Fayette County sharecroppers who were evicted from their lands for participating in a voter registration drive and attempting to exercise their political power. Learn more

Sugar Hill (Lauderdale County Museum)

One of Ripley’s earliest frame homes, it was built by Joseph Wardlaw’s enslaved laborers, Tom and Hiliary. Learn more

Wells School

One of the few remaining schools for African American children built with funds from the Sears, Roebuck & Company magnate Julius Rosenwald. Learn more

Canaan Baptist Church

Built around 1917 by the McCaddens, an African American family of skilled craftspeople. Learn more

Battle of Moscow Historical Marker

The Battle of Moscow historical marker details the U.S. Colored Troops of the 2nd West Tennessee Infantry’s efforts to guard crucial railroads and supply lines during the Civil War. Learn more.