Woolworth’s Lunch Counter Exhibit Remains Secure at the ‘Blacksonian’
*Despite earlier reports of its removal, the historic Woolworth’s lunch counter exhibit remains proudly on display at the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), also known as the “Blacksonian.”
The exhibit features two stools from the famous 1960 Greensboro, North Carolina sit-in. Four Black students from North Carolina A&T—Ezell Blair Jr., Franklin McCain, Joseph McNeil, and David Richmond—sparked national change by staging a nonviolent protest at a whites-only counter.
Controversy Over Removal Sparks Public Outcry and Clarifications
On Thursday, BlackPressUSA reported that Trump administration officials allegedly ordered the removal of the lunch counter exhibit to eliminate “improper ideology.” The report sparked outrage from civil rights leaders and historians alike.
Social media posts amplified the claims, but Smithsonian officials quickly clarified the truth. On Friday (04-25-25), BlackPressUSA updated its report confirming the stools remain part of the permanent collection, easing public concern.
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Smithsonian Officials Reaffirm Commitment to Preserving Civil Rights History
Cynetra McMillian, a NMAAHC public affairs specialist, and Linda St. Thomas, Smithsonian spokesperson, confirmed that the Greensboro stools are safe. One stool remains on display while the second is rotated out for preservation.
Designed by Ralph Appelbaum Associates and Cortina Productions, the interactive “Segregated Lunch Counter” exhibit includes twelve 42-inch multi-touch screens and a 35-foot projection wall, allowing visitors to explore key Civil Rights Movement strategies.
Woolworth’s Stools: A Gift from the International Civil Rights Center & Museum
The International Civil Rights Center & Museum in Greensboro donated portions of the original Woolworth’s counter to NMAAHC in 2016. The Greensboro museum still retains sections of the historic counter within its own exhibits.
Broader Concerns Remain Over Black History Narratives
Although the Woolworth’s lunch counter exhibit remains secure, the initial removal rumor sparked wider fears. Leaders like Rep. Alma Adams criticized any attempts to “distract” or alter the telling of Black history under political pressure.
Smithsonian officials urge visitors and supporters to check official NMAAHC sources for updates and continue celebrating the enduring legacy of Civil Rights heroes at the museum.
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Trump Calls the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History ‘Divisive, Race-centered, Corrosive’ – Threatens Funding
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