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.
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
MCAAHA Hosts Black History Month Celebration
MCAAHA Hosts Black History Month Celebration The Madison County African American Historical Association hosted a Black History Month celebration on February 16, 2025, at Antioch Baptist Church in Madison. The event featured speakers, including youth participants, and...
MCAAHA Welcomes Visitors to the Lodge Hall for a Holiday Gathering
MCAAHA Welcomes Visitors to the Lodge Hall for a Holiday Gathering The Lodge Hall on S. Main Street served as a festive venue for MCAAHA’s holiday open house on December 14, 2024. We were thrilled to welcome many visitors, including Mrs. Lillian Turner Holly, one of...
MCAAHA Awards Two Scholarships
MCAAHA Awards Two Scholarships In May 2024, MCAAHA awarded two scholarships to students graduating from Madison County High School. We were pleased to honor Kirsten Henshaw, one of MCAAHA’s interns, and Damajah Brown-Robinson with $1,000 scholarships. MCAAHA President...
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.
Exhibits & Memory Sites
How You Can Help
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Join our organization! The membership application is available here.
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Have a story to share? Contact us!
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Help with events, and spread the word about the MCAAHA.
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Donate or loan photos, documents, and artifacts.
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Help with research or documentation.
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Contribute ideas for exhibits, discussions, and lectures.