Stephen B. Luce Library Celebrates Black History Month

In celebration of Black History Month, the Stephen B. Luce Library honors notable African Americans in maritime history, culture, and industry with an exhibit from the Institutional Archives, Circulating Collection, and a digital display.

The virtual exhibit on the library’s web portal includes:

• A slideshow presentation on African Americans in maritime history, which features information on the first African Americans to graduate from Maritime College
• Recommended readings from our collection
• Online resources for research on African Americans and maritime perspectives, including links from the Library of Congress and the American Merchant Marine at War

An exhibit of archival collections will be on display throughout February in the Library’s foyer area:

• A display case featuring archival photographs, yearbooks, and biographical information on notable African American Maritime College alums, Carl Frederick Burnett and Walter Womack Branford. 
• Photograph display highlighting an exchange program with Liberia in 1961, during which four Liberian students were sponsored by the African American Institute to attend Maritime College and study Marine Transportation.
• A selection of books from our Circulating Collection featuring prominent African Americans in maritime and military history.

The photos on display give a glimpse into the global perspectives of Black History Month.