Spring Into Summer 2026!

With this issue of the Museum Newsletter, we Spring Into Summer with many exciting events coming up that you won't want to miss. Please feel free to share with family and friends.

We most gratefully acknowledge the Museum's many supporters, donors, sponsors, and volunteers without whom this work would not be possible. We also sincerely thank our visitors and program participants who make these efforts worthwhile.

Scroll down to see what is being accomplished through your contributions to the Museum of African American Museum of History and Culture at Loray Mill.

Susan Maxon, Publications Editor and Emeritus Member of Museum Board of Directors

Kathleen Blake, Newsletter Editor-in-Chief and Emeritus Member of Museum Board of Directors

Dorothy (Dot) Guthrie, Museum Founder and Executive Director

Dot Guthrie (Museum Founder/Executive Director) and Nicole Antunes (Museum Office Manager) will present information on this summer reading program for children. Join on Zoom to find out the details to get your children enrolled. In this program, children will celebrate African American stories and culture with engaging books, guest speakers, community, and fun activities.

Children must be enrolled in the Summer Reading Program to attend.

For additional information call 980-888-4005.

Groups must call to reserve.

Phone: 980-888-4005

We're tuning up for a Juneteenth celebration! Get ready to feel the rhythm and relive the classics! We are kicking off our Juneteenth festivities with a soulful night of legendary music.

FREE Admission

Presenting Bettye Canada (Pianist and Vocalist), Chriscynethia Floyd (Vocalist), Bruce Wiley (Pianist), and the Booker Wilson Band

Lucy Penegar Grand Hall - Loray Mill, 300 South Firestone Street, Gastonia, NC

Tickets: $50.00 per person

Commemorating the service and sacrifice of African American Soldiers

On display until November 30, 2026

As you plan upcoming visits, please note that the Museum will be closed on the following holidays:

• Friday, June 19, 2026 - Juneteenth
• Friday, July 3, 2026 - Independence Day (observed)

The spirit of the great erudite Mary McLeod Bethune would have soared...seeing the young ladies from Clover High School explore the African American Museum of History and Culture at Loray Mill.

Their presence was nothing short of amazing. Brimming with engagement and enthusiasm, these students demonstrated a profound hunger to uncover their history and honor the stories of those who paved the way before them.

Museum Board member Larry Moore led the way, delivering a truly phenomenal tour that brought history to life.

The experience was further enriched by insightful contributions from Office Manager Nicole Antunes and SCSEP staff member Frances Barber, who shared their expertise throughout the tour.

I had the opportunity to share my experiences of growing up in Clover with the young women. I emphasized the importance of perseverance in pursuing their aspirations.

It was a powerful reminder that the future is in bright, inquisitive hands.

Written by Dorothy (Dot) Guthrie, Founder and Executive Director

African American Museum of History and Culture at Loray Mill

The African American Museum marked Women’s History Month on March 14 with a celebration at the Family Life Center, Tabernacle Baptist Church. In keeping with this year's theme "Leading The Change: Women Shaping A Sustainable Future," we were delighted to honor these remarkable women: Jennifer Davis, Angela Dreher, Chéz Adams, Barbara Massey Arnold, and Tasha White.

Left to right: Jennifer Davis, Angela Dreher, Chéz Adams, Barbara Massey Arnold, Tasha White

Photo courtesy of Dorothy (Dot) Guthrie

February 16, 2026 marked the 7th anniversary of the African American Museum of History and Culture. Seven years of preserving stories, honoring legacy, and serving our community. We are grateful for every visitor, volunteer, donor, and supporter who has helped us grow.

As we celebrate, we invite you to support the next chapter.

Please consider making a donation today. Together, we keep the legacy alive.

The African American Museum of History and Culture at Loray Mill is an approved 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. We encourage monetary donations, documents, and artifacts that promote Black life, history, and culture at the local, regional, and national level. Your generous gift will help to support the children, young adults, and adults programming, special exhibits, and displays offered by the museum.

Donations may be made online at https://africanamericanmuseumgastonia.com/donate/

Or you may mail your donations to:

African American Museum of History and Culture at Loray Mill

300 S. Firestone St., Suite P

Gastonia, NC 28052

The Museum is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Admission fee:

• Adults: $3
  
• Children: $2 (5 years and under free)
• Groups: $20

Groups are requested to contact us in advance to schedule a tour of the Museum.

Please note as you plan upcoming visits that the Museum will be closed on the following holidays:

• Friday, June 19, 2026 - Juneteenth
• Friday, July 3, 2026 - Independence Day (observed)

African American Museum of History and Culture at Loray Mill

300 South Firestone Street, Suite P

Gastonia, NC 28052

Website: www.africanamericanmuseumgastonia.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588657948545 (New!)

Email: africanamericangaston@gmail.com

Phone: 980-888-4005

Cell: 704-898-3795