We're Making
Black History
Now.
In Portsmouth,
Perseverance & Pride
The story of African Americans in Portsmouth is one of both perseverance and pride, struggle and achievement. Black History Now! is a City of Portsmouth Museum’s initiative to create opportunities to celebrate Black excellence and honor the stories of Portsmouth’s Black communities throughout the city’s history. In Portsmouth, Black History isn’t a month or something you find in a history book. We're still making it today.
Canvas For
Creativity.
This City Is A
Celebrating Portsmouth's Artists
Art Is Revolutionary Exhibit
WEDNESDAY - SUNDAY: 10AM - 4PM
Portsmouth has a long history of Black artistic achievement, from globally renowned soprano Matilda Sissieretta Joyner Jones to hip hop pioneer Missy Elliott. In 2024 the arts take center stage, as Black History Now! showcases some of the area’s most successful Black artists, filmmakers, musicians, and changemakers. Meet the artists who made history in Portsmouth through this historic collection of memories and artifacts, highlighting the impact of Portsmouth’s artists.
JOYNER JONES
Upcoming Events
Join Us
Meet phenomenal Black artists across all mediums and celebrate those who change the world one frame, one song, one photograph, and one meal at a time.
10AM - 4PM
Portsmouth Colored Community Library Museum