The Griot Museum of Black History
Often called simply The Griot, this wax museum in St. Louis, MO, was founded in 1997 to tell the history of Black Americans, with a focus on people tied to the St. Louis region. It opened under the name Black World History Wax Museum and took its full present name, Griot Museum of Black History, in 2009. About 1.5 miles off the old road, it adds a layer of local history that a drive down Route 66 can easily miss.
What is The Griot Museum of Black History?
The museum uses wax figures alongside collections and exhibits to bring the past into the room. Its mission is to gather, protect and pass on the stories and culture of Black people, with special attention to those who have a link to St. Louis and its surrounding area.
It counts as both an African-American museum and a wider cultural institution, and it welcomes families.
History of The Griot Museum of Black History
It opened in 1997 under the name Black World History Wax Museum. In 2009 it took its current name, often shortened to The Griot.
The new name carries meaning. In parts of West Africa, a griot is the person who keeps a community's memory: part historian, part storyteller, poet, musician and singer of praise songs. Griots hold the oral tradition and are often respected leaders, and the museum sees its own job the same way.
Visiting The Griot Museum of Black History: tips
The museum is about 1.5 miles off the Route 66 corridor. Allow an hour or so. Restrooms are on site, and the museum reports wheelchair access and a welcome for kids. Entry is not free.
The Scott Joplin House State Historic Site is about 1.1 miles away and makes a natural pairing. Two old standpipe water towers, the Bissell Street Water Tower and the Grand Avenue Water Tower, are each about 1.2 miles off for a quick photo stop, so the museum fits neatly into a north St. Louis loop.
Practical info
- Address
- 2505 Saint Louis Avenue, Saint Louis, MO 63106
- Phone
- +1 314-241-7057
- Website
- thegriotmuseum.com
- Hours
- Tue–Sat 10–5
- On site & nearby
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Where to eat near The Griot Museum of Black History
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Questions about The Griot Museum of Black History
What does griot mean?
In parts of West Africa, a griot is a keeper of a community's history and oral tradition: a storyteller, historian, poet, musician and praise singer in one.
What was the museum called before?
It opened in 1997 under the name Black World History Wax Museum and was renamed in 2009.
Own or run The Griot Museum of Black History? Send us a photo or a correction.