African American Heritage Foundation of Southeastern NC

06/08/2026

⏳ The countdown is on! The 2026 Juneteenth Freedom Feast is almost here. Don't miss this special evening of history, culture, and celebration featuring Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Dr. Edda L. Fields-Black.

🎟️ Get your tickets today: https://www.aahfsnc.org/event-details/juneteenth-freedom-feast-with-special-guest-dr-edda-l-fields-black

06/08/2026

This Week in Black History – Southeastern North Carolina

James Francis Shober (1853–1889) made history by becoming the first professionally trained Black physician in the state and the only one in Wilmington.

A graduate of Howard University College of Medicine, Dr. Shober broke barriers during a time when opportunities for African Americans in medicine were extremely limited. His dedication to healthcare and community service helped pave the way for future generations of Black medical professionals.

Though his life was brief, his impact remains a powerful reminder that perseverance and excellence can change history.

Today, we honor Dr. James Francis Shober and his lasting contribution to Wilmington and Southeastern North Carolina.

06/01/2026

It's the first day of June!
⏳ Time is running out! The 2026 Juneteenth Freedom Feast is almost here. Join us for an inspiring evening celebrating freedom, heritage, and community featuring Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Dr. Edda L. Fields-Black. Secure your tickets today before it's too late!

The 2026 Juneteenth Freedom Feast is a celebration of freedom, resilience, and community. This year’s event will feature Dr. Edda L. Fields-Black, 2025 Pulitzer Prize winner in History for her acclaimed book Combee.

05/26/2026

Now that Summer is officially here. It's time to head to the beaches, but during the Jim Crow Era it was nearly impossible for African Americans to have beachfront property.

This Week in Black History – Southeastern North Carolina 🌊✊🏾

Did you know? Founded in 1949, the Ocean City Community became the ONLY coastal community in North Carolina where African Americans could purchase beachfront property during segregation.

More than just a beach town, Ocean City became a place of freedom, joy, family gatherings, and Black ownership during a time when access and opportunity were limited elsewhere.

Today, its beautiful shoreline and enduring legacy continue to stand as a powerful reminder of resilience, community, and Black excellence along the North Carolina coast.

05/14/2026

This Week in Black History – Southeastern North Carolina

General Joseph C. McNeil, a Wilmington, NC native and one of the courageous Greensboro Four, helped ignite a movement that changed America. As a young college student, he stood against segregation by participating in the historic 1960 Woolworth sit-ins, helping spark nationwide protests for civil rights.

His legacy reminds us that bold actions can inspire lasting change for generations to come.

05/04/2026

You’re invited to join us for an unforgettable evening of celebration, culture, and community at the Juneteenth Freedom Feast 2026, hosted by the African American Heritage Foundation of Southeastern North Carolina.

This year’s event will feature distinguished guest speaker Dr. Edda L. Fields-Black, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author of Combee. Together, we will honor the legacy of freedom, reflect on our shared history, and celebrate the resilience and excellence of our community.

05/04/2026

Did you know?
One of the most influential architects in American history was born right here in Wilmington.

Robert R. Taylor became the first academically trained African American architect in the United States, graduating from the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Recruited by Booker T. Washington, he helped design and build the foundation of Tuskegee Institute—shaping not only buildings, but futures.

Through his work, Taylor trained generations of Black architects and craftsmen, proving that excellence, innovation, and leadership have deep roots in Southeastern North Carolina.

Legacy Highlight:
He didn’t just construct buildings—he built pathways for opportunity.

04/22/2026

You should not miss this event.

04/20/2026

Listen to the African American Heritage Foundation of Southeastern NC President, Joe Bryant, as he talks about our upcoming event.