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 Ceremony to Commemorate Cemetery for the Enslaved
The Madison County African American Historical Association (MCAAHA), together with Graves Mill Farm owners Kemp and Tommy Hill, hosted a ceremony to commemorate a cemetery for the enslaved on October 19th in Graves Mill. The event, entitled "Silent Ground: Community...
MCAAHA to Host Memorial for the Enslaved in Graves Mill
The Madison County African American Historical Association (MCAAHA), together with the owners of Graves Mill Farm and Maple Glen Farm, will host a memorial ceremony at a cemetery for the enslaved in Graves Mill on Sunday, October 19, from 1-5 pm. The event will begin...
Virginia Humanities Awards Grant to the MCAAHA
The Madison County African American Historical Association (MCAAHA) has announced that the organization has been awarded a $3,500 grant from Virginia Humanities. The grant will be used to help support the preservation of a...
Hometown Histories
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!
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.