Jones is curator of the African-American Civil War Museum, which reopened in a new space last month. The exhibit, “The Glorious March to Liberty,” spans from the Civil War to civil rights. Tell me about your new space.
We’re now in the annex of the old Grimke school building, which used to be the gymnasium and auditorium. We’re very excited because we can tell the larger story. It’s a space that’s very welcoming. A lot of people come in and get a sense of ownership. They come in and they are very proud of the space they are in.
What is your greatest challenge as a curator?
This story is one of the best-kept secrets in American history. Well-educated Americans will often find the true story unbelievable. We’re taught that African-Americans did little or nothing to free themselves. There is the blanket statement that President Lincoln freed the slaves with the Emancipation Proclamation. The Emancipation Proclamation was far more complicated than that.
What’s the biggest misconception you encounter?
African-Americans were at the front lines because they’re expendable. That’s not the American doctrine. You send in the Marines first, you send in the 101st Airborne first, because they are the best. When it comes to American colored troops being on the front lines in Richmond, it’s because they were considered to be among the best. Poor scholarship has characterized this story for many decades.
What is the best feature of the new exhibit?
Every quote from the exhibit comes from someone who was actually there. We don’t quote scholars; we quote players. I’m most excited that this exhibit allows you to hear the voices of history makers, as best you can do that.
— Natalie Plumb
