Gen z interns revitalize atlanta's historic african american museum
The Apex Museum, Atlanta’s oldest repository documenting Black History, is experiencing a palpable shift, fueled by a new wave of energy injected by a cohort of Gen Z interns. Among them, Kyler Hendricks, a Georgia State University student, is meticulously restoring the institution’s digital archive, a task that demands both precision and a keen eye for detail.
A glimpse into the past: preserving authentic voices
Hendricks’ work centers on the Yates and Milton drugstore exhibit, a remarkably accurate replica of one of the first Black-owned pharmacies in Georgia. Located originally on Auburn Avenue, this isn’t a stage set; it’s a time capsule. She spends her days carefully cataloging decades-old medical records – some dating back to the era of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – and examining prescription pads bearing the signatures of prominent families in the community, including the King family themselves. It’s a sobering reminder of the vital role this store played as a cornerstone of Black commerce and healthcare.
“We’re talking about actual records,” Hendricks explained, carefully handling a brittle document. “Some of these had to be returned to the families. The King family, for example, were frequent visitors. It functioned much like a modern CVS or Walgreens, providing essential goods and, crucially, medical services to a community that often faced systemic barriers.”
Dan Moore Jr., co-founder of the Apex Museum, expressed immense pride in the program. “Each intern is assigned a tailored track, aligning with their academic interests and career aspirations,” he stated. “We're not simply offering experience; we’re cultivating future curators, conservators, and researchers.”
The museum’s partnership with students extends beyond basic archiving. Under Moore’s direction, interns are actively involved in projects like the Invention Corridor, showcasing the ingenuity of Black inventors and innovators. This hands-on approach is proving invaluable, not only in enriching the museum’s collection but also in translating historical milestones for a younger generation. They’re even leveraging platforms like TikTok and Instagram to connect the past with present-day technology, illustrating how pioneers like Dr. Valerie Thomas laid the groundwork for modern 3D technology and gaming – a connection that resonates deeply with the ‘Oculus’ generation.
Currently, the cohort comprises a diverse group – archivists, conservators, anthropologists, researchers, and archaeologists – all starting with the foundational task of mastering the art of docency. Regardless of their individual career paths, every intern begins by learning to guide visitors through the museum’s exhibits. It's a surprisingly demanding task, requiring a nuanced understanding of History and the ability to communicate it effectively. The museum's success, it seems, rests not just on its collection, but on its commitment to nurturing the next generation of cultural stewards.”n