Looking for a way to inspire your kids (and yourself) with courage, confidence, and address some real-world happenings at the same time? We have the perfect place: The Robert Russa Moton Museum. There’s no question we are all off to a bit of an uncertain start this school year. Why not lead by an example with a day trip to a national historic landmark and epicenter of American civil rights history right in Farmville, Virginia?
1. History matters- Discover it at the Robert Russa Moton Museum
There has never been a more important time to educate yourself and your family about the civil rights movement’s origins in Prince Edward County. Thanks to the Moton Museum, this movement and the young students who stood at its roots are preserved through hands-on exhibits, photographs, even tar-paper shacks constructed as life-size replicas of the originals. You can choose between self-guided and in-person tours as you discover tales of heroism and persistence in the face of adversity and hate. Although your family might be familiar with the phrase Brown vs. Board of education, the Moton Museum will allow you to understand the people, places, and faces behind the landmark decision in a real and engaging way, though audio-visual and interpretive presentations.
2. Courage that inspires for the whole family
The permanent exhibition on display in the Moton gallery is called The Moton School Story: Children of Courage. It focuses on how young people challenged many commonly held beliefs about equality of the day and changed its meaning for all Americans. With programs geared towards school-aged kids and adults, you’ll be inspired by the powerful life of Barbara Rose Johns Powell, who led a strike against the Robert Russa Moton High School at only 16 years old. You’ll hear other stories of courage as you explore the six galleries of the installation. A digital experience is also available. Please contact the museum for more details.
3. You can travel back in time
From the tar paper shack that was used in 1940 to hold overflow students, to the recreation of the Moton High School auditorium circa 1951 where Barbara Johns delivered a speech that prompted students to stand and walk out, the Moton Museum will offer you and your family an immersive experience in a moment in time.
4. It’s only a drive away
Best of all, this incredible resource is only a short drive from Richmond, D.C., Charlottesville, or the Hampton Roads area. Make it a day trip back in time to learn lessons for today’s times. Farmville also offers excellent dining, shopping, and charming downtown shops to explore.
There’s no question that the lessons of the Moton Museum are ripe for today’s times. Courage, strength, and standing up to injustice are all things we hope to instill in our children. Why not bring the family and make a day of discovering what true courage looks like and the power it can have to change the world? We can’t wait to see you!
