On Monday, August 7, at 12P A Public dedication ceremony will take place that will establish historical markers of both Oscar Micheaux and Annie Turnbo Malone, from the Illinois State Historical Society in front of Metropolis Chamber of Commerce building on Market Street.
The first African-American feature filmmaker, Oscar Micheaux, was born in Metropolis in 1884. He produced more than 44 films and is regarded as the most successful African-American filmmaker of the first half of the 20th century and the most prominent producer of race films. If you are ever in Hollywood, look for his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6721 Hollywood Blvd.
Annie Turnbo Malone was born and raised in Massac County and is known as the founder of African-American cosmetology and the first female African American millionaire.
Both were born and raised in Massac County and achieved notable success during an era of extreme racial discrimination.
Reverend Orlando McReynolds of First Missionary Baptist Church in Metropolis – organizer of the marker project noted that with both Micheaux and Turnbo Malone being recognized both nationally and internationally that it is only right that they receive recognition in their hometown of Metropolis.
McReynolds went on to say, “In a time and era of African-American history being excluded and eliminated from school curriculums, we hope that this will be a lasting testimony of local African-American cultural contributions.”
The initiative was supported by Illinois State and Federal legislators and local city officials including Rep. Patrick Windhorst, U.S. Sen Tammy Duckworth, Councilman Chuck Short, Mayor Don Canada and Rick Abel Esq. Financial support for the project was given by Mary Pettus, CEO and Owner of Pettus-Rowland Funeral Home.
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