Mississippi to Launch Rosenwald Schools Exhibit in 2027
The state archive is seeking public donations of historical artifacts to preserve the legacy of former segregated schools.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Secondary Education
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The Mississippi Department of Archives and History is requesting public contributions for a new exhibit documenting the history of Rosenwald Schools. This collection will be featured in a planned exhibition opening in August 2027.
Why it matters
The initiative aims to preserve the lived experiences of students, teachers, and communities connected to the historic school system. By gathering original artifacts, the exhibit will provide a tangible record of the education system's impact on local history.
A total of 4,978 Rosenwald Schools were built across the United States between 1913 and 1937, with more than 500 located within Mississippi. The department is specifically seeking donations of items like teacher logs, photos, desks, and textbooks.
The players
Mississippi Department of Archives and History
This state agency is responsible for the preservation and promotion of Mississippi's history and manages the official state archives.
The details
Interested contributors can participate by emailing a description and photo of potential items to the department. These materials will help the state document the daily life and educational environment of the Rosenwald era.
Timeline
The Rosenwald Schools project began in Alabama between 1913 and 1914.
The final Rosenwald School was constructed in 1937.
The Mississippi Department of Archives and History exhibit is scheduled to open in August 2027.
Culture Shift
This effort marks a pivot from historical research to community-led preservation of the Rosenwald Schools project. It highlights a growing societal commitment to reclaiming stories that define the educational history of marginalized communities.
Residents who possess historical items related to these schools have the opportunity to contribute to the preservation of state history. This participation requires only a digital description and photo of the object to start the submission process.
The takeaway
Preserving these artifacts ensures that the legacy of the Rosenwald Schools continues to be a central part of the state's educational narrative. Families with relevant materials can play a direct role in maintaining this record for future generations.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's educational history at the Mississippi Secondary Education portal.
More information
To submit your artifacts, please contact the email for artifact submission.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WAPT.
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