After slavery ended, official history books and public archives often ignored or left out the experiences of African Americans. Because their stories weren't being collected by traditional institutions, Black families took history into their own hands. For generations, they kept their past alive through oral storytelling, family records, old photographs, and treasured heirlooms. These personal items became crucial pieces of evidence, capturing the real, everyday stories of resilience, culture, and community success that official records overlooked.

The Unlocking the Shoebox workshop at Tampa's Black History Museum is designed to bring these hidden treasures into the light. By teaching community members how to protect and preserve their personal artifacts, the workshop helps fill in the missing pieces of local history.

Bring a few items from your personal collection! We will kick off with an inspiring panel featuring local historians, community elders, and preservation experts. You will learn the best practices for handling, digitizing, and storing delicate photos and documents. More importantly, we’ll discuss the profound cultural significance of everyday Black history and why your family's personal narrative is a vital piece of Tampa's story.