In early February I was invited to speak about the museum with a group in St. Louis. It was a wonderful opportunity to spread the word about the museum and share some of the many ways the museum has been able to educate children and adults about the accomplishments of African Americans. After the presentation a gentleman approached me and wanted to make a donation to the museum. I had shared the story of Henry "Box" Brown with the group and mentioned that this had become a favorite story of museum visitors and the box I had made to help students experience the story more fully. The original box that was created for the museum had been dismantled. Mr. Gates offered to make a more sturdy box that would replace the original box that would last longer. After several emails and research on behalf of Mr. Gates the box was completed and Mr. Gates delivered it. It is perfect! Sturdy, heavy, thoughtfully designed and as historically accurate as once could hope for. The box has a latch to close it, a removable piece in the bottom that can be easily cleaned, handles on either end for handling and a wheeled dolly for transporting. Mr. Gates added the writing on the box and provided me with some of his research materials. A big museum "Thank You" to Mr. J. Terry Gates for the generous donation!
