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About Our Center

Located in the Jefferson School City Center, The Jefferson School African American Heritage Center’s mission is to honor and preserve the rich heritage and legacy of the African-American community of Charlottesville-Albemarle, Virginia and to promote a greater appreciation for, and understanding of, the contributions of African Americans and peoples of the Diaspora locally, nationally and globally.

The Center features a permanent historical exhibit, a rotating contemporary art gallery, and a robust calendar of events, all of which combine to highlight Charlottesville’s African American history and culture of the African diaspora.

Contemporary Gallery

Veronica Jackson: A Constellation of BLACKTIVISTS

10 May – 9 August, 2025

Exhibition opening 10, May | 6-8 pm

The exhibition consist of two bodies of work, Jackson’s BLACKTIVISTS series, which she began in  that considers the lives of 12 Black women activists and her Constellation of Blackness  that uses the broadside format to articulate words by Audre Lourde and others that speak to the triumph of Black womanist self-accultalization.

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Finally Remembered: The Black Patriots of Central Virginia

20 September – 31 January, 2026

Exhibition opening: 20 September | 6-8 pm

The exhibition honors the African American Men and Women who served in the Revolutionary War. Through rare documents, profiles, military records, and historical interpretation, it restores the visibility of those whose courage helped shape the nation’s founding.

Spotlight Events & Programs

Upcoming Events

Tour

Saturday Public Tours

Time: Saturday, December 20, 2025December 20, 2025 - 10:30 AM - June 21, 2025 - 11:30 AM /
Join us for a one hour tour where we explore the local Black history. Book tickets today for only $10.00.
Concerts

Sade Tribute 40 Years of Promise: A Celebration of the Music of Sade

Time: Saturday, November 22, 2025November 22, 2025 - 6:00 PM - October 10, 2025 - 9:00 PM /
Experience Live Music with Ivan Orr & Friends Join us for an unforgettable evening of sound and soul as Ivan Orr & Friends bring Sade’s Promise and other timeless favorites to life. Each note is performed with artistry and respect for the music’s true spirit, creating a performance you won’t want to miss. Upgrade to the VIP Experience− VIP Tickets include: Curated bites 2 drinks of your choice Preferred seating for the best view in the house VIP Experience–  Doors open at 6:00 pm. Food served at 6:30 pm General Admission-Doors open at 7:00 pm. Seating is Limited. Don’t miss out! Get your tickets today! Check out Ivan Orr on IG instagram.com/iorr03    
Tour

Murals & Memorials Tour

Time: Saturday, October 25, 202510:00 AM - 12:00 PM / Jefferson School African American Heritage Center
Join the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center for the next Murals & Memorials Tour, part of Phase II of the Swords into Plowshares project. Led by Executive Director Dr. Andrea Douglas, this guided tour explores four Charlottesville sites to examine how buildings, murals, and memorials shape our understanding of spatial justice, belonging, and collective memory. RSVP today and add your voice to the ongoing conversation about creating inclusive public spaces. Learn more at sipcville.com.  

Become a Member

Become a Member!

As a JSAAHC Member you’ll receive:

  • Free admission to exhibits and events.
  • Discounts on workshops, lectures, and programs.
  • Invitations to members-only events.
  • Discounts in Alumni Room Museum Shop and Café
  • And much more.
Help us plan for the future by taking our survey.
Help share authentic history by becoming a guide.

Hours:

Business hours 10 am -6pm;Exhibtion hours 1pm-6pm; Museum Shop and Cafe hours 9am-1pm

Location

233 4th St NW, Charlottesville, VA 22903

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