October 5 …

The Kannapolis African-American Museum and Cultural Center (KAA-MaCC) in Kannapolis, NC is a vibrant tribute to the resilience, creativity, and enduring legacy of African-American life in the Cabarrus-Rowan region and beyond.

Since its founding on October 5, 2013, the museum and cultural center has been dedicated to amplifying voices and narratives that have long been neglected, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds to discover the significant influence of African-American history on both the local community and the broader American landscape.

The museum was established by Dr. Ruby L. Anthony-White, M.D., a Kannapolis native and descendant of former slaves who envisioned a venue dedicated to preserving and celebrating African-American heritage, alongside her niece, Jacqueline L. Anthony. Motivated by the rich yet underrepresented history of African-Americans in Cabarrus and Rowan counties, they created the museum as a nonprofit organization focused on collecting artifacts, preserving oral histories, and fostering community engagement that bridges cultural divides.

Initially hosted in temporary spaces, the museum has centered its mission on education, inclusivity, and celebration — organizing exhibits, webinars, and community programs that highlight contributions to education, business, the arts, and civic life. Under the leadership of KAA-MaCC, the Vision 2026 initiative aims to establish a permanent, state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a cultural hub and a national model for interpreting local history.

Over the years, the museum has gained recognition as a vital institution for heritage preservation in Central North Carolina. Through annual anniversary celebrations and Hall of Fame inductions, it honors trailblazers whose lives exemplify excellence and transformative impact, inspiring future generations to appreciate diversity and shared history.

Support from donors, volunteers, and institutional partners has enabled the museum to cultivate a readership and following both locally and regionally, attracting scholars, students, and visitors eager to explore narratives that enrich American culture.

The contributions of Kannapolis African-American Museum and Cultural Center extend beyond static displays. It actively engages audiences with meaningful storytelling that celebrates African-American heritage as an essential part of the American experience.