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 Receives Grant for Exhibition on Schools
The Madison County African American Historical Association (MCAAHA) has announced that the organization has received a $5,000 grant from the Northern Piedmont Community Foundation. The grant will help fund a new exhibition that will chronicle the history of local...
Honoring Leroy “Roy” Carey: A Trailblazer in America’s Nuclear Navy
This Veterans Day, we honor the life and legacy of Leroy Carey, a pioneering African American sailor who helped power a turning point in U.S. naval history. Born December 18, 1937, in the community of Aylor, Virginia, Carey was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Carey. In...
“Silent Ground” Memorial Ceremony Featured in Foothills Forum
The Foothills Forum recently published an excellent article about our "Silent Ground" memorial ceremony. Enjoy the article here, and view the wonderful event photos by Victoria Garnett! Thank you to Ayana Summerlinrosa for this informative account of our special...
Hometown Histories
Hometown Histories – Astorie Turner Acty
Hometown Histories: Astorie Turner Acty Astorie Turner Acty was born on January 9, 1935, to the late William and Viola Cousins Turnerin Achsah, Madison County, Virginia. She was the fifth of 13 children in the Turnerfamily, a household filled with love, music, and...
Hometown Histories – Edward Snyder “Skip” Gordon
Hometown Histories: Edward Snyder "Skip" GordonEdward Snyder Gordon, affectionately called “Skip” by his family and friends, was born December 8, 1939, to the late Conway and Katherine Frances Gordon in the community of Tanners in Madison County. Skip grew up in a...
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.