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Black History Month in Chatham-Kent

​​Black History Month takes place each February. This month offers a time for reflection and celebration of the many achievements of Black Canadians who have done so much to make Canada the diverse place it is today. 

Black History Month dates back to 1926, when time was set aside to honour the accomplishments of African Americans and to heighten awareness of Black History in the United States. Celebrations of Black history began in Canada, shortly thereafter, but it wasn't until December of 1995 that the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month in Canada, following a motion introduced by Jean Augustine, the first Black Canadian woman elected to Parliament.

Once considered a destination for freedom seekers, Chatham-Kent is home to some of the most successful Black settlements in Canadian History. Today, three historic sites contribute to the Chatham-Kent Underground Railroad story and year-round, we recognize Chatham-Kent's significant Black historical figures, the community's role in the Underground Railroad. and celebrate the contributions of Black Canadians. 

Videos Celebrating Chatham-Kent Black History

Buxton National Historic Site & Museum is Ontario's second largest national historic site and is a tribute to the Elgin Settlement, established in 1849 by Rev. William King. The site is home to one of the last standing schoolhouses, as well as an 1852 log cabin, a 1853 barn, a community church and cemetery, the Liberty Bell, and museum. Download the Driftscape app on your mobile device to enhance your tour of the site and surrounding areas. Book your virtual tour here or take a public on-site tour Monday - Friday between 1:00pm and 4:30pm. 

Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society and Black Mecca Museum shares the emotional journey of Chatham's Black community that settled along McGregor's Creek at end of the 18th century to present day.  CKBHS is dedicated to the discovery, research and preservation of Chatham-Kent's Black history and it's contribution to business, education, medicine, sport as well as literary and cultural arts. A visit includes not only a self-guided tour of the museum, but also a guided walking tour (weather permitting) of a number of significant locations within the community, including BME Freedom Park. During the month of February staff will be doing presentations throughout the community, contact them in advance to plan your visit.

Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History is the site of the Dawn Settlement built by Rev. Josiah Henson in 1841. The Interpretive Centre includes a collection of 19th century artifacts and books, a rare early edition of Henson's autobiography and a signed portrait of Queen Victoria which she presented to him. In addition to the Josiah Henson House, the site also includes the Sawmill, the Smokehouse and the Pioneer Church and Cemetery. Contact the site directly about group visits.

​2026 February Events 

Black History Month Flag Raising on January 30st at Chatham Civic Centre everyone is welcome 12:00pm, 315 King St W, Chatham.

  • February 7, 10:30am, Celeb​rate Black History at the ​Chatham-Kent Public Library
    • Enjoy a free story and hands-on music experience for all ages. Presented in partnership with Buxton National Historic Site & Museum. 
  • February 14 & 21 – Kids Club Featuring Artis Shreve Lane. Children ages 6–12 will learn about local artist Artis Shreve Lane and create clay sculptures. Free Program – Registration Required.
  • February 16, 10am, Virtual Guided Tour of the Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History​​
    • take part in a FREE guided tour of the museum highlighting - REGISTER NOW
      • ​The resilience and creativity of Black Residents in the Dresden area
      • The history and legacy of the Dawn Settlement
      • Key individuals who shaped local and national history
      • The ongoing impact of Black heritage in Canada
  • ​February 18, 6pm - 12am, Virtual Trivia Night 
    • ​Test your Chatham-Kent Black History knowledge through virtual trivial. Partnership between CK Public Library and CK Museums. Join in on CKPL's Facebook page 
  • February 22, 2pm - Celebration of Music at the Jazzbah, 125 King St. W., Chatham
    • Music, poetry, and storytelling featuring Chatham-Kent talent with guest speakers from Buxton National Historic Site​ & Museum, the Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum, Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History  

All Month – Explore & Celebrate

  • Travelling Exhibit: Let Us March on Til Victory is Won – Book or view online through CK Museums​.
  • Read Black Voices: Visit CKPL branches or online to discover books by Black authors and illustrators.
  • Local History Displays: Dresden Municipal Centre & Chatham Civic Centre, in partnership with Buxton National Historic Site & Museum, the Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum, Josiah Henson Museum of African-Canadian History  ​

Chatham Capitol Theatre Events

The Chatham Capitol Theatre is hosting a different movie each Wednesday night in recognition of Black History Month. Admission is $7 at the door. All movies begin at 7pm. 

  • February 4, "Harriet" - Experience the incredible story of Harriet Tubman - her escape from slavery and heroic missions to free others via the Underground Railroad. 
  • February 11, "42: The Jackie Robinson Story" - Witness the powerful true story of Jackie Robinson breaking baseball's colour barrier. 
  • February 18, "The Princess and The Frog" - A reimagining of the classic fairy tale. 
  • February 24, "Selma" - Chronicles the historic 1965 voting rights march from Selma to Montgomery, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

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