Tracing Our History & Celebrating Our Origin

Welcome to the

Madison County African American Historical Association

The Madison County African American Historical Association honors the history of African Americans in our rural Virginia community. We invite you to learn more about our work in research, preservation, and education through our exhibits, programs, and events.

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Enlightenment & Inspiration

Our Vision

The MCAAHA will foster greater understanding and appreciation of African American contributions to our community while supporting diversity and promoting cultural inclusivity. We believe that everyone should be empowered to engage in their history and culture and fully recognize and celebrate African American achievements.

Our Values

We are dedicated to the belief that sharing the true history of our Madison community enlightens and enriches us all. We believe that understanding this important history, reflecting both adversity and achievement, can serve to inspire and unite us , and strengthen our community ties.

News & Events

October 7, 2023

2023 NAACP President’s Award

Congratulations to our founder Nancy Garnett Williams on being presented with the 2023 NAACP Culpeper President’s Award! The award was presented by the Rev. Frank D. Lewis, president of the Culpeper Branch and a lifelong friend of Nancy’s. Read more in this Madison Eagle article.

September 28, 2023

Sip & Learn Event, “Madison Men of Color in the Civil War”

Local historian and MCAAHA board member Zann Nelson provided an informative talk at a recent “Sip & Learn” event at Revalation Vineyards in Madison County. The discussion focused on “Madison Men of Color in the Civil War.” We were honored to have several descendants present at this event!

May 20, 2023

Honoring African American Soldiers

On May 20, 2023, the Madison County African American Historical Association partnered with Right the Record and History Quest to honor more than 300 African American soldiers who fought for the United States in the Union Army during the Civil War. Seventy-one soldiers from Madison County were commemorated in a solomn reading of the soldiers’ names. More information about this event can be found here. Right the Record continues to research the descendants of these brave men.

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Hometown Histories

Hometown Histories – Lillian Turner Holly

Our third “Hometown Histories” profile features Mrs. Lillian Turner Holly, who was born in Madison and returned to our community later in life with her husband Hank. Lillian enjoyed an extraordinary career as a teacher. MCAAHA met with Lillian recently to learn more about Lillian’s gifts as a wife, mother, homemaker, and educator.

Hometown Histories – William Lee Frye, Sr.

Our second “Hometown Histories” profile features Mr. William Lee Frye, Sr., a lifelong resident of the Shelby area of Madison County. Mr. Frye inspires us with his love of family and his hometown roots, as well as his admirable work ethic and craftsmanship skills!

Hometown Histories – Mary Blakey Jones

Introducing our Hometown Histories! Our first spotlight features Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Blakey Jones, a native of Madison. Her family was among those displaced from Shenandoah National Park.