Heritage · Culture · Legacy
Welcome to The African American Experience!
Explore Our Heritage — Discover Our Legacy
Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of our community. Discover archival collections, artifacts, and educational resources that preserve and promote our shared legacy.
Our Purpose
African American Experience is committed to preserving and promoting the rich history of African Americans. Our organization provides educational resources and community programs that inspire pride and cultural awareness.
Celebrating Black Heritage
Featured Event
Harnett County Black History Program
The 2025 Harnett County Black History Program celebrated African American culture and heritage through featured art, dance, African drumming, and spoken word. Students from Lillington Shawtown School delighted the audience with a vibrant African dance performance.
View PhotosFamFest 2025
Community DNA genealogy festival celebrating family roots and African American heritage.
Learn MoreNigerian Naming Ceremony
A beautiful cultural ceremony honoring the traditions of naming in Nigerian culture.
Learn MoreEastern Wake FamFest 2025
Celebrating family heritage and community connections in Eastern Wake County.
Learn MoreTrailblazer Awards 2025
The 2025 Harnett County Trailblazer Awards Ceremony took place Saturday, June 28, 2025 at 5:00 PM at the Harnett County Commons Building.
See MoreRoots & Heritage Tour
A guided tour exploring the roots and heritage of African American communities across North Carolina.
Learn MoreFamily DNA Fest
Discover your family's DNA story and connect with relatives at this annual genealogy festival.
Learn MoreJuneteenth in Duplin
Celebrating freedom and community in Duplin County with music, food, and cultural programming.
Learn MoreSupport the African American Experience
Your support helps preserve history, fund exhibits, and inspire community engagement.
Celebrating Our Heritage
Heritage Region
Harnett County Heritage
Explore the rich African American history and cultural legacy of Harnett County, North Carolina.
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Heritage Region
Southwest Wake Legacy
Discover the fascinating stories and rich histories of Southwest Wake County's African American communities.
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Heritage Region
Eastern Wake Stories
Discover the fascinating stories and rich histories of Zebulon, North Carolina and the surrounding Eastern Wake region.
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Heritage Region
Pender County Roots
Discover the fascinating stories and rich histories of Pender County, North Carolina.
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Heritage Region
Duplin History
Discover the fascinating stories and rich histories of the Duplin County African American Experience.
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Heritage Region
Johnston County
Discover the fascinating stories and rich histories of the Johnston County African American Experience.
Discover MoreGet In Touch
Connect with Us
Visit Us in Person
We love our visitors. Please contact us to make an appointment.
African American Heritage Center
21 Wayne Mclean Drive, Lillington, NC 27546By Appointment — Please call us for an appointment