A landmark exhibition, “Becoming Us: African Caribbean St Albans,” has opened its doors at the St Albans Museum + Gallery, shedding light on the profound contributions of the African Caribbean community to St Albans, Hertfordshire, over the past 80 years. Co-curated by Leeannas Wish and Active Lifestyles, the exhibition aims to celebrate the multifaceted heritage of the community while inspiring future generations and fostering a deeper appreciation of shared history among diverse backgrounds.
Running until June 30, 2024, in the Keeper’s Galleries, the free exhibition delves into the period from 1948 to 1971, paying homage to black St Albans residents before this time and highlighting achievements up to the present day. Through themes such as Windrush and Arrival, Working Lives, Overcoming Adversity, African Caribbean Culture, Commercial Music, and Celebrating Achievements, “Becoming Us” offers a comprehensive exploration of the community’s journey and impact on the city.
To ensure an authentic representation, the museum collaborated with local residents, hosting workshops to capture oral histories, identify digital images, and gather objects for loan or donation. These contributions have been instrumental in shaping the exhibition, providing a rich tapestry of stories and experiences.
The exhibition’s private view on February 16 saw a vibrant turnout, with the St Albans Mayor, local dignitaries, councillors, and members of the community coming together to celebrate and share their stories. Andrene McDonald, Chair of Active Lifestyles, expressed her elation at seeing the exhibition come to fruition, emphasizing its role in recognizing the hard work and contributions of the African Caribbean people in St Albans.
Becoming Us” offers immersive experiences, including a reconstructed 1970s West Indian front room adorned with original ornaments and furniture loaned from St Albans residents. Visitors are invited to engage with curated playlists and family tree activities, fostering a deeper connection to the community’s heritage.
Highlighting the significant impact of the Windrush generation, Shelley Hayles, Director of Leeannas Wish, emphasized the exhibition’s role in documenting and celebrating the community’s diverse contributions, spanning education, culture, business, and civic engagement.
Catherine Newley, Audience Development Manager at St Albans Museums, underscored the importance of collaborative partnerships in delivering engaging and inclusive exhibitions that resonate with the community.
In commemorating the contributions of the African Caribbean community, “Becoming Us” serves as a poignant reminder of St Albans’ vibrant heritage and a testament to the city’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
St Albans Museum + Gallery, located at St Peter’s Street, St Albans, AL1 3DH, welcomes visitors from Monday to Sunday, 11am-5pm, with free admission. For more information, visit www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk or follow @stalbansmuseums.
