How a small museum in St. Louis is reimagining Black history as an essential narrative for all.
Although February 2025 has come and gone, Black History Month in St. Louis is a year-round affair, thanks to the singular efforts of our own Griot Museum — an institution dedicated to preserving and sharing stories of notable African Americans who shaped both our city and our nation.
The Griot Museum of Black History, located at 2505 St Louis Ave, 63106, in Old North St. Louis’ Jeff Vanderlou neighborhood, considers their mission to be sharing our rich African American history, culture, and experiences across the region and around the world.
Lois Conley, founder of the museum, spoke to its purpose: “There are lots of wax museums in the country, but none of them…do not deal with history in the way that we do”.
The Griot Museum delivers a far-reaching exploration of the past, through life-sized wax figures, numerous artifacts, and state-of-the-art interactive exhibits. It has been sharing stories of consequential historic figures, some of them local — such as Dred Scott, Miles Davis, Nat Turner and Josephine Baker — since 1997.
“We start, of course, with Africa because we think we have to paint that picture of how Africans came to this country in general. Then, the stories evolve around enslavement and freedom and the reconstruction of the Middle Passage,” stated Conley. “We did a lot of research and wrote up the narratives to explain the life and legacy of that person.”
Conley continued. “The museum is the first Black history museum in Missouri, hosting special programs, guided tours, storytelling sessions, and discussions of St. Louis’ role in civil rights history. Visitors say it is a must-see.
“I’m always comfortable saying, ‘I don’t want you to know everything that’s in this room or in this space—I want you to know something different.’ If you learned one thing different that you didn’t know when you came, I’m happy”.
Conley concluded, “That’s my goal: to make one small difference with one person.”
The Griot Museum of Black History is open is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10AM to 5PM, and is closed on Sunday and Monday. Admission is $5 for ages 5–12 and $10 for ages 13 and older.
The Griot Museum of Black History, the first cultural institution in St. Louis dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich stories of Black history and culture. Since 1997, The Griot has been a vital space for education, reflection, and celebration, showcasing life-size wax figures, historical artifacts, and immersive exhibits that bring to life the significant contributions of African Americans. From local history to national achievements, we invite you to explore the powerful narratives that have shaped our community and our nation.
#BlackHistory365 #MuseumEducation #StLouis
