African American Experience Project

Exploring the legacy of Sacramento's African American History

Welcome to the African American Experience Project, a historic initiative that delves into the rich tapestry of Sacramento's African American history, spanning from the city's early days to the recent past.

Listen to an overview about the project here.

Project overview

The African American Experience Project, which was funded through a grant, was a dedicated effort to research and document the African American history in Sacramento. This significant undertaking has now concluded, leaving behind a comprehensive account of our city's historical legacy.

Historic context statement

The final draft of the historic context statement, a key outcome of this project, is now available for your reference. This document provides valuable insights into the African American experience in Sacramento. The public comment period for this document closed on February 28, 2023, after being available for four months. Additionally, read about the many historic properties with historic significance to the African American Community that this project helped to identify.

Preservation and documentation

During the project, the community played an essential role in collecting oral histories and historical documents. We appreciate the contributions made by many, which now form an integral part of Sacramento's historical record. If you are interested in accessing or contributing to this collection, please contact us at AAE@cityofsacramento.org or follow the link below to submit your oral history interviews, photos, or other documents to be held in the City’s archive.

Project background

The African American Experience Project filled a crucial gap in the preservation of Sacramento's history. Despite the challenges of racism and exclusion, Sacramento's Black community thrived, thanks to a network of organizations, institutions, businesses, and remarkable individuals. This project aimed to create a historical framework to document the African American experience from the city's early history to the recent past, ensuring its recognition and preservation for future generations.

Funding and collaboration

The project was made possible through the support of the National Trust for Historic Preservation African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, which seeks to preserve and protect overlooked places that hold centuries of African American history, achievement, and resilience. The project was managed by dedicated city staff, with the assistance of students from Sacramento State University (CSUS), community partners, and professional consultants.

Exploring history

While the African American Experience Project has concluded, we encourage you to explore its historical significance and impact. Please feel free to explore the recordings of past meetings, news articles, and stories that shed light on the project's goals and achievements.

Explore past meetings:

• 9/28/22 - MLK Library - Meadowview
• 10/18/22 - Robertson Community Center - North Sacramento
• 11/15/22 - Pannell Community Center - Meadowview

Explore the project's impact and significance in the news:

• 'Deeper story to be told': Sacramento launches African American Experience Project| kcra.com
• Sacramento's African American Experience Project seeks input | abc10.com
• African American Experience Project: Black stories preserved | abc10.com
• Preserving Black History | sacobserver.com
• Sacramento asks Black families to share their family history | sacbee.com
• Sacramento Black Experience Project | capradio.org
• Help preserve Sacramento history by participating in the City's 'African American Experience Project'|sacramentocityexpress.com
• Students and faculty help preserve Sacramento’s African American history | csus.edu
• Sacramento Black Experience Update|capradio.org

Contact us

For historical information or inquiries, please contact our team:

• Project email: AAE@cityofsacramento.org

Sean de Courcy, Preservation Director

• Office: 916-808-2796
• Mobile: 916-662-2626

Henry Feuss, Historic Preservation Planner

• Office: 916-808-5880

Thank you for your interest in the African American Experience Project. We hope this historical perspective enriches your understanding of Sacramento's past.