African American history in Southern Indiana is full of contradictions. On one hand, Indiana was the proverbial promised land for those escaping the clutches of slavery. On the other hand, what was waiting on the north shore of the Ohio River wasn’t always friendly or compassionate to those fleeing enslavement. 

History Signs, information by county  Black History in Louisville Timeline

You can learn about the Black experience at Big Ben's D & M Restaurant at the Depot in Jeffersonville, where posters tell the history of African Americans' quest for freedom in Clark County and the surrounding area. Each poster tackles a different set of information. Important figures, notable moments, a timeline of noteworthy events, the first African American settlements and land purchases are detailed. 

One of those important dates was when Indiana became a state in 1816. At the time, some Indiana residents kept people as personal property even though the constitution forbids slavery. And although it was prohibited, enslaved people were not technically free for many years afterward. Even then, along with white women, Black people and Indigenous people were not allowed to vote or participate in the system that made laws governing their lives. In fact, upon the ratification of the second constitution of the state of Indiana, black people were technically not allowed to settle in the state. They were only allowed to pass through. 

Around this time, the Fugitive Slave Act passed, making it a crime to help anyone escape enslavement. The penalties were most severe for those trying to escape. Those who participated in the Underground Railroad or helped in any way, faced fines or jail time. 

Downtown Town Clock Church Drone

Despite the danger, the Black population increased, and sanctioned settlements popped up, particularly near the homes of Quaker communities, which have a storied history of participating in the Underground Railroad.

Southern Indiana serves a unique role in the relationship between the northern and southern United States. We are a gateway, a passage and a hub for many of the events that shaped and continue to shape this country. 

As we mark another Black History Month, it is important to remember our history, both good and bad. It is equally important that we face it with honesty and humility to move forward and truly create the “more perfect union” that our federal constitution asks of us. It is an attainable goal. In Southern Indiana, and around the nation, recommitting ourselves to that small task will continue to bring us closer to the dreams of those who came before us. 

Carnegie Underground Railroad

If you’d like to learn more, you can learn about the significant milestones of Black history at Big Ben's D & M Restaurant at the Depot. In addition, the Floyd County Carnegie Library Cultural Arts Center has two permanent exhibits about the Black experience as well as a virtual one.

“Ordinary People, Extraordinary Courage: Men and Women of the Underground Railroad” tells the tale of New Albany’s Underground Railroad experience and reveals the contributions of ordinary people, both free and enslaved, who showed courage during that time. 

men and women of Underground Railroad

“Remembered: The Life of Lucy Higgs Nichols” guides visitors through Lucy’s life, from 1838 to 1915. Period documents and letters detail her life as a slave in Tennessee, a nurse during the Civil War, and her post-war life in freedom.

You can also watch “A Reason to Remember: A Virtual New Albany Field Trip.” This educational film tells Indiana history in collaboration with four other historic sites in New Albany: Town Clock Church, Culbertson Mansion, Scribner House and Division Street School. 

Carnegie Center staff member Delesha Thomas  historic interpreter Mandy Dick
Carnegie Center staff member Delesha Thomas (L) and historic interpreter Mandy Dick (R) (portraying Hattie Scribner) are featured in A Reason to Remember: A Virtual New Albany Field Trip.

Avid listeners of the My Favorite Murder podcast got to hear the inspiring, and sometimes harrowing, story of New Albany resident Lucy Higgs Nichols. While starting out as a true crime podcast, My Favorite Murder has expanded to feature stories about survival, bravery and historically overlooked figures like Lucy. After escaping enslavement in the south, Lucy joined Indiana’s 23rd Volunteer Regiment. She used her skills as a caretaker to become a nurse and the right hand of the regiment’s surgeon, supporting the Union Army in the Civil War. Take a listen to learn more about Lucy and her fight to develop a better life for her family. WARNING: The episode does contain colorful language.

Black History Month Events


Cultural Arts Center BHM Event 2026

All About Art for Elementary Students: Faith Ringgold
Tuesday, February 17, 2026 | 4:30-5:30 pm
Floyd County Carnegie Library Cultural Arts Center, New Albany
Elementary students in grades K–4 are invited to the Cultural Arts Center to explore new art techniques and artists each month. In February, participants will learn about Faith Ringgold, a Harlem-born painter, sculptor, writer, performance artist and activist, and create story quilts—drawings on paper inspired by a favorite experience. All supplies are provided. Click here to reserve your spot.

Cultural Arts Center BHM Event 2

Art History Illustrated: The Art History of Kehinde Wiley
Thursday, February 12, 2026 | 5:30-7:00 pm
Floyd County Carnegie Library Cultural Arts Center, New Albany
Art History Illustrated: Kehinde Wiley is an in-person talk exploring the work of the acclaimed artist best known for his portrait of Barack Obama. Art historian Brenda Edgar will guide attendees through Wiley’s use of classical European art styles combined with contemporary Black and Brown iconography. This event is free, but space is limited. Click here to reserve your spot. 

Town Clock Church Sign

Black History Month Celebration at Second Baptist Church
Saturday, February 7, 2026 | Noon
Second Baptist Church, New Albany
Second Baptist Church will celebrate Black History Month beginning Saturday, February 7, 2026, at noon with a Black History Celebration hosted by the Men of Second Baptist. The event, themed “We Are Better Together,” will honor community members and include a candlelight memorial service, recognizing Alice Miles, with Rev. Dr. Derrick Miles of Greater Friendship Baptist Church as the guest speaker. In addition, Black History moments will be shared during the 11 a.m. Sunday services throughout the month.

Additional Resources:

List of Black Owned Businesses in the tourism industry of SoIN to support year-round:

If there are other businesses to add to this list please reach out to Marissa@GoSoIN.com. 

 

Southern Indiana