A group of high school students in El Paso, Illinois, have turned a dilapidated barbershop into a museum that honours the legacy of David Strother, the first Black voter in Illinois. This initiative not only preserves local history but also commemorates a significant milestone in the fight for voting rights in the United States.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Project-XV-Museum-110726-5e9a35a5f7cf453ca218b509077cbb19.jpg)
The Project XV Museum is situated in a building that once housed Strother’s barbershop, which he ran with his brother. The museum focuses on the pivotal contributions made by Strother in the wake of the 15th Amendment’s ratification in 1870, which prohibited voting discrimination based on race, colour, or previous servitude. This amendment signified a crucial advancement in the struggle for African American voting rights.
The concept for the museum emerged unexpectedly from the enthusiasm of local high school students. Barb Lancaster, a member of the museum board, noted, “It was a kid’s idea,” referring to the initial spark of inspiration for the project. The initiative traces back to a history assignment given by teacher Michael Melick, who tasked his students with researching individuals buried in a nearby cemetery. One student chose to investigate the life of David Strother, leading them to uncover an essential chapter of American history that was largely unfamiliar to them.
Strother, born in Missouri in 1843, was the son of Leah Strother, an educated woman who bought her family’s freedom from slavery. During his youth, he worked on steamboats travelling on the Mississippi River and later served as a cook for the 17th Illinois Infantry during the Civil War. After the war, he made El Paso his home, establishing a barbershop where he and his brother set about building a life.
On April 4, 1870, shortly after the 15th Amendment became law, Strother went to his local polling station determined to cast his vote in a municipal election. Initially faced with questions about his eligibility, he was validated by election officials, allowing him to be recognised as the first Black voter in Illinois following the amendment’s enactment. His brother Charles also voted on that historic day, making him the second Black voter in the state.
Post-research, Melick took his students to see the rundown barbershop, asking them what they would envision for the space if they could transform it. Among the many creative ideas presented, the concept of a museum dedicated to Strother and the broader struggle for voting rights resonated strongly.
Embracing their vision, the building’s owner, Tabitha Arnold-Nowark, supported the transformation, leading to the establishment of the Project XV Museum. Young volunteers enthusiastically participated in the renovation process, working to clear out debris and refurbish the space for its new educational purpose. Harrison Sepich, a 19-year-old political science student at Illinois State University, described the experience, recalling, “We were getting rid of dirt and bricks,” as they worked to rejuvenate the old barbershop.
The newly restored museum serves as an educational hub, shedding light on Strother’s historic vote and the ongoing struggle for voting access in America. Nikita Richards-Calahan, vice president of the museum board, emphasised the importance of the museum, stating, “This space is crucial to African American history.” She pointed out Strother’s influential role at the time, remarking that his barbershop was a gathering place where he could share crucial information with fellow citizens about advocating for their rights.
Brian Ulrich, the museum curator, shared insights about how Strother was revered in his community. He highlighted that the extensive obituary published after Strother’s death indicated the high regard in which he was held, comparable to that of prominent politicians at the time. It is noted that his funeral was one of the largest seen in El Paso, reinforcing his legacy within the area.
The Project XV Museum is now open to the public on Sundays and Mondays from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Additionally, visitors can arrange private tours, further promoting awareness of Strother’s remarkable story and the broader significance of voting rights in the United States.
As the museum takes shape, it stands as a testament not only to the achievements of David Strother but also to the passion and commitment of the young people who are bringing this vital piece of history to life for future generations.
About the Author
