100 Years: Black American History and The Jefferson School

Every February, Black History Month invites us to pause, reflect, and recommit to remembering the past honestly, honoring the present fully, and shaping a more just future together. This year carries special significance. As the nation recognizes the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, Charlottesville also marks a powerful local milestone the 100th anniversary of the Jefferson School.

These shared centennials remind us that Black history is not abstract or distant. It lives in our neighborhoods, our institutions, and our collective memory. It is both national and deeply local.

A Century of Black American History

Black History Month began in 1926 as Negro History Week, established by historian Carter G. Woodson to ensure that Black contributions were recognized and taught in a country that too often excluded them from the historical record. Over the past 100 years, what began as a corrective effort has grown into a national movement. A movement that celebrates Black excellence, resilience, creativity, and leadership across every field of American life.

Yet the purpose remains the same: to tell the full story. To honor lives, voices, and achievements that shaped this country, even when the country failed to honor them in return.

The Jefferson School: A Local Legacy

In Charlottesville, the Jefferson School stands as a living testament to that mission.

Opened in 1926, the Jefferson School was built to educate Black students during segregation, at a time when equal resources, opportunities, and respect were systematically denied. Despite those barriers, the school became a cornerstone of Black life in Charlottesville.

Generations of Black students passed through its doors, taught by educators who believed deeply in their potential and dignity. The Jefferson School was more than a building. It was a symbol of self-determination and hope, even within an unjust system.

Today the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center continues to serve the community by preserving history, elevating Black voices, and creating space for education, dialogue, and cultural celebration. Its evolution mirrors a broader truth: Black institutions have always adapted, endured, and led. If you have not visited the Jefferson School, I encourage you to find time to attend an event there or book a tour of their permanent exhibits.

Why These Anniversaries Matter

For CASA programs and Piedmont CASA, in particular, these anniversaries matter. They remind us that inequities affecting children today did not begin in the child welfare system. They are rooted in long-standing disparities in education, opportunity, and access to support. The Jefferson School stands as a powerful example of what happens when communities invest in children, even when systems fail them.

As the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center preserves and uplifts Black history, telling the story of the children, family, and community members that walked its halls and lived in the greater Charlottesville area. We are called to do similar work through our advocacy. CASA Advocates step forward to ensure children are seen, heard, and supported – telling their stories.

Black History Month is not only about remembrance; it is about responsibility. As we honor 100 years of Black history nationally and locally, I ask you to join me in recommitting yourself to equity, compassion, and justice for every child we serve this month and always.

Discover More

• Black History Month Events in Charlottesville and Albemarle
• Black History Month – 28 Days of Discovery and Inspiration
• Lousia County Historical Society African American Genealogy Workshop
• Louisa County Historical Society Virtual Presentation” Absalom Ailstock – Revolutionary Soldier”. Join us for an informative discussion of the life and legacy of Absalom Ailstock, a free black soldier born and raised in Louisa County who fought for American Independence with the Continental Army.
• Sip and Learn – Preserving Black History in Rural Virginia at Revalation Vineyards in Madison
• Historic Preservation Lecture Series – Albemarle Historical Society. First talk is “Preserving Black History” with Jody Lahendro, March 2 at 6pm, Trinity Episcopal Church