The museum is open upon reservation

503 Genesee St. Waukegan, IL 60085

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ABOUT THE FOUNDER

SYLVIA ENGLAND

Sylvia England, founder of the African American Museum at the England Manor, is a passionate historian, educator, and community advocate. Driven by a lifelong commitment to preserving Black history and culture, Sylvia transformed her family estate into a powerful space for education, remembrance, and celebration. Her vision is rooted in honoring the legacies of African American ancestors while inspiring future generations through storytelling, artifacts, and community engagement. Through the museum, Sylvia continues to uplift untold histories and ensure that the richness of African American heritage is never forgotten.

Explore The Museum
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Sylvia England was born in Chicago and raised in the Quad Cities. In her youth, Sylvia became interested in sewing and set her intentions towards wanting a career in fashion. She went on to get formal training in Home Economics and Education. That training landed in Waukegan, IL, where she began her 36-year tenure as an Educator; an Administrator; and Dean of Students in the Waukegan area. Since her retirement, her passions for knowledge, children, and history have led her to civic leadership and extensive travel researching and teaching African American History, to her community and abroad.

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In 2009, Sylvia found out a home she purchased in Waukegan was a safe station as part of the Underground Railroad. Sylvia decided then that she wanted to open a museum to give students, parents, and travelers alike, an opportunity to gain the knowledge she has acquired, as she set out to continue to learn from others. So, she took the journey of the Underground Railroad to make sure that she fully understood the impact and the history of the story that she now can tell. In her travels and quests across the country, she has acquired a vast amount of knowledge and many historical artifacts that sit in the museum today.

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Sylvia England has chosen to open the museum, a one-of-a-kind in the Lake County area, as a non for profit to enrich the lives of those in her community and the youth who will go on to tell the story. She is devoted to justice, the duty of citizenship, and the meaning of fellowship. She understands the value of community partnerships, and for that reason, it is her greatest hope that the museum becomes a prominent site in the years to come.

Mission Statement

The African American Museum at the England Manor is committed to preserving and celebrating the rich history and cultural heritage of African Americans by engaging communities through education, meaningful conversations, and cultural experiences. We aim to build bridges of understanding and unity to help reduce conflict and foster a society that embraces diversity and harmony.

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