Lucy Craft Laney (1854-1933) was born in Macon,
Georgia, and she grew up to be one of the nation’s
greatest educators. She earned her degree at Atlanta
University and began teaching in Macon soon after. She moved to Augusta, and it was here
that she made her greatest contribution toward reforming education for African Americans
by opening the first school in town dedicated exclusively to educating Black boys and girls.
Lucy Craft Laney’s home was established as a museum in 1991. It promotes her
extraordinary legacy, as well as the numerous Black leaders from Augusta who have made
substantial contributions to the community and world.
A cornerstone for the cultural and historical preservation of African American history
in the Augusta area, the Museum explores local history through special tours, programs,
annual events and outdoor Heritage Tours. Both guided and self-guided tours of the historic
Golden Blocks area—that includes recent public art—is available. Experience inspiring art
exhibitions that showcase the South’s rich Black heritage to locals and visitors through
rotating exhibitions all year. Tours are limited in size and must be scheduled in advance.