Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum

Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum The Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society and Black Mecca Museum will continue to promote the Chatham-Kent areas most important and prominent Black histories.

The Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society is dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the history of Chatham-Kent’s Black Community and their influence across North America. Located inside the JG Taylor Community Centre - also known as the WISH Centre:

The Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society and Black Mecca Museum, a Non-Profit Organization is dedicated to the preservation and promotion

of the history of Chatham-Kent’s Black Community and their influence across North America. Our organization aims to educate the residents of Chatham-Kent and visitors from a round the globe about the legacy left by the early Black pioneers and refugees who helped to build the city. Walking tours are available of the historically Black neighbourhood of Chatham, weather permitting.

Here is a photo of Andrew “Andy” Harding competing in the high jump. Born in Chatham, Andy Harding excelled in athletics...
05/27/2026

Here is a photo of Andrew “Andy” Harding competing in the high jump. Born in Chatham, Andy Harding excelled in athletics and began playing as an outfielder for the Chatham Coloured All Stars in 1935. He then also went on to play for the Taylor ACs. Beyond sports, Andy Harding was Chatham’s first Black police officer and a World War II veteran. What an inspiring trailblazer! ⚾️✨

A big thank you to the group from Apple Creek SDA Church for their visit on Sunday! We hope to see you again soon! ...
05/26/2026

A big thank you to the group from Apple Creek SDA Church for their visit on Sunday! We hope to see you again soon!

Today, we had the pleasure of sharing our history with the amazing students and faculty from the Global Leadership Acade...
05/26/2026

Today, we had the pleasure of sharing our history with the amazing students and faculty from the Global Leadership Academy during their 11th annual visit. As always, it was an honour to engage with the bright minds of the future, and we are already looking forward to welcoming them back next year! ✨

This weekend, family, friends, and community members gathered to celebrate Gwendolyn Robinson’s legacy and contributions...
05/25/2026

This weekend, family, friends, and community members gathered to celebrate Gwendolyn Robinson’s legacy and contributions to Chatham’s Black community.

Gwendolyn Robinson played a pivotal role in bringing Chatham’s Black history to light and starting important conversations surrounding its preservation and recognition. Professionally, she is one of the founders of the Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society & Black Mecca Museum. Personally, she is a matriarch, a valued community member, an inspiration, and everyone’s favourite hairdresser! Thanks to her dedication and passion, we are able to share our local history and continue this important research.

Thank you to Mayor Darrin Canniff and MP Dave Epp for your kind words and support. We would also like to thank her son, Drew Robinson, for his generous donation in support of
continuing Mrs. Robinson’s passion and legacy. Additionally, thank you to artist Jermaine Baylis who created a beautiful portrait of Mrs. Robinson that will soon be featured in our museum alongside a commemorative plaque.

Lastly, thank you to Gwendolyn Robinson for your years of hard work, dedication, and impact on our community. This celebration is well deserved! ❤️

A big thank you to the group from Short Trips for their visit on Friday! We are very lucky to have been able to share ou...
05/25/2026

A big thank you to the group from Short Trips for their visit on Friday! We are very lucky to have been able to share our history with such an amazing group!

Did you know that hundreds of Black veterans from Chatham served in the wars despite facing systemic barriers? This imag...
05/22/2026

Did you know that hundreds of Black veterans from Chatham served in the wars despite facing systemic barriers? This image captures a powerful piece of that history!

Pictured here is Sergeant John Obey standing on top of a tank during WWII. Serving with the 4th Canadian Armoured Brigade, Sgt. Olbey rose from tank driver to gunner to tank commander where he helped lead tactical advances and coordinate attacks in combat.

Visit the Chatham-Kent Black Mecca Museum to learn more about Chatham’s rich Black history! ✨

Address

177 King Street East
Chatham, ON
N7M3N1

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4pm
Tuesday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm

Telephone

519-352-3565

Website

https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/black-excellence-awards-and-gala

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