Black History Month is an annual celebration of the history, accomplishments, and contributions of African Americans in the United States. This celebration every February honors the achievements of African Americans in various fields and brings attention to important topics such as the fight against racism and the struggle for civil rights. One community member will bring his knowledge to the Aurora Public Library District (APLD) with a program focusing on African American history in Aurora. Alderman Sherman Jenkins February 6 will be at the Santori Library to present a program on African Americans in Aurora, 1921-1955.
Author and researcher Sherman Jenkins is the president of a digital media company and serves as alderman-at-large for Aurora. Prior to these achievements he served as executive director for economic development for the City of Aurora government for approximately 25 years.
Alderman Jenkins has been diligently conducting research for a new book about the history of African Americans in Aurora, 1921 to 1955. He has interviewed many Aurorans who lived through the period and has been combing through the Library’s collection of The Beacon-News on microfilm with the help of genealogy and community history librarian, Cailín Cullen.
“Alderman Jenkins has uncovered many interesting nuggets of information, and we are eager to share them with the community,” said Cullen.
New and longtime residents alike will enjoy learning about the history that ties our community together. Some of you may be lucky enough to remember what the area near the Aurora Regional Fire Musuem looked like 70 years ago. Back then, North LaSalle Street (now a parking lot) was home to an array of businesses, including The 66 Club, a social club and tavern, and Dean’s Barber Shop above it. Through the lens of alderman Jenkins’ intriguing and informative research, program attendees can look forward to hearing stories about Aurora that will surprise and delight!
To find more surprising details about Aurora, plan a trip to the Local History Room at the Santori Library. The Local History Room is open anytime the Library is open, no appointment is necessary. There are many unique collections, including City directories, yearbooks, newspapers on microfilm, archival materials, historic maps, and local history reference books. Check out our web page for more information at www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/local-history.
During Black History Month in February, we recognize the achievements of African Americans and remember the struggles endured. We celebrate the progress that has been made in Aurora and come together to ensure that the future will be filled with even more success. African Americans in Aurora: 1921 to 1955 will take place Monday, Feb. 6, at 7 p.m. in-person at the Santori Library and virtually on Zoom. For more information visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/event/7609301 or call the Library at 630-264-4117.
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.