Exhibits

In addition to permanent exhibits highlighting A. Quinn Jones, Florida educational history and civil rights, the museum also features rotating exhibits on a variety of subjects.

Education

The Power of Education

"Education was the way out of a dark society."

— Joel Buchanan,
One of Gainesville High School’s first African American graduates

Allen Quinn Jones was a dedicated educator and community leader. This was his family’s home since 1925. Exhibits in this museum tell the story of Jones and his long career as principal at Lincoln School, as well as the rich African American history of Gainesville & Alachua County.

Civil Rights

Civil Rights in Gainesville

Can G’ville Restaurants Legally Evict Negro Patrons?

— Gainesville Sun, July 28, 1963

Gainesville went through the same turmoil during the Civil Rights Movement that most of the nation experienced. Learn the history of racial unrest, Jim Crow, integration and protests of this community.

Churches

The Prominent Place of Churches

“I think a lot of white people in power went through black ministers to get things done or to find out things.”

— Betty Stewart-Dowdell,
A long time Gainesville resident

African American ministers were well respected and had a great deal of influence on their congregations and the community, especially during segregation and the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s & 60s.