About the Tarrant County Black Historical & Genealogical Society
Founded by Activist Lenora Rolla
In 1974, Lenora Rolla, a Black journalist and political activist, was serving as a docent at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History and on various local Bicentennial Committees. As the nation's bicentennial year approached, Mrs. Rolla became concerned that the history of Tarrant County's Black citizens should be recognized during the celebrations. When she investigated, she discovered that none of Tarrant County's universities or libraries held any significant material relating to Black history—although important archival material existed in private collections. To address this gap, Mrs. Rolla and a few friends organized the Tarrant County Black Historical and Genealogical Society.
Mission and Collections
The society operates as a nonprofit educational and public service organization with a threefold mission: to collect, preserve, and make available to the public materials relating to the history of Black people in Tarrant County; to educate the public about the contributions of Black citizens to county history; and to help Black people in Tarrant County develop skills to research their family histories. The organization has collected personal papers, scrapbooks, clippings files, photographic collections, art work, and other relevant materials that now form an invaluable archive of African American life in the Fort Worth area.
The Lenora Rolla Heritage Center Museum
The society operates the Lenora Rolla Heritage Center Museum, named in honor of its visionary founder. Located in an established historical district in the heart of Fort Worth at 1020 E. Humbolt Street, the museum presents exhibits and programs that document, interpret, and empower understanding of the African American experience in Tarrant County. The society continues Mrs. Rolla's legacy by ensuring that Black history is recognized, preserved, and shared with future generations.
Plan Your Visit
The Lenora Rolla Heritage Center Museum is located at 1020 E. Humbolt Street in Fort Worth. The society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and membership contributions support the maintenance of facilities and records. For museum hours, membership information, and research assistance, call (817) 332-6049, email info@tarrantcountyblackhistory.org, or visit tarrantcountyblackhistory.org.
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