Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum | Savannah

Historical Background and Significance

The Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum is a dedicated institution located in Savannah, Georgia, that commemorates the local and regional struggle for civil rights, particularly focusing on the African American experience and the fight against racial injustice in the American South. Established in 1996, the museum is named after Reverend Dr. Ralph Mark Gilbert, a pivotal leader in Savannah’s civil rights movement during the mid-20th century.

Ralph Mark Gilbert served as pastor of the First African Baptist Church in Savannah from 1939 to 1956. During his tenure, he revitalized the Savannah chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), transforming it into a highly effective organization. Under his leadership, the NAACP grew significantly, with over forty chapters established throughout Georgia by 1950. Gilbert was instrumental in organizing voter registration drives that challenged and eventually dismantled the discriminatory “white primary” system that excluded African Americans from voting in the state. His activism helped to lay the foundation for greater political representation and civil rights advancements in Savannah and beyond.

The museum itself is housed in a historically important building — the former Wage Earners Savings and Loan Bank, built in 1914 by Robert Pharrow, an African American contractor. This bank was notable as the largest Black-owned bank in the United States at the time. The building later became the headquarters for the Savannah NAACP chapter. Choosing this site for the museum not only preserves an important piece of African American economic history but also physically roots the museum in the heart of Savannah’s civil rights legacy.

Museum Exhibits and Collections

The Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum occupies three floors and presents a rich narrative of Savannah’s African American history, the civil rights movement, and the broader struggle for equality. The museum uses photographs, artifacts, multimedia displays, and archival documents to tell these stories.

Key exhibits include:

NAACP “Freedom Fighter” Earl T. Shinhoster – “Peace and Power”: This exhibit honors Earl T. Shinhoster, a nationally recognized civil rights advocate who served as an executive director of the NAACP. It highlights his contributions to advancing civil rights through peaceful protest, education, and political activism.

“The Meeting” Painting: A large and symbolic artwork depicting the 1865 meeting between General William Tecumseh Sherman and Black ministers in Savannah. This event occurred shortly after Sherman’s March to the Sea during the Civil War and signified the beginning of the complex journey toward freedom, reconstruction, and civil rights for formerly enslaved African Americans.

West Broad Street: Black Business Empire: This gallery celebrates the historic economic success of Savannah’s Black business district along West Broad Street. It showcases how African American entrepreneurs built a thriving community and established financial independence despite systemic racial barriers. The display includes photographs, business memorabilia, and personal stories of influential local figures.

Eloria S. Gilbert Archive: Donated by Reverend Gilbert’s widow, this archive contains hundreds of typewritten sermons, plays, letters, and official documents related to Gilbert’s leadership in the NAACP and his role as a religious and civil rights leader. These materials provide deep insight into the strategies, hopes, and challenges faced by activists in Savannah during a critical era.

The museum also features rotating exhibitions and educational programs designed to engage visitors of all ages, providing a comprehensive understanding of the civil rights movement’s local roots and national impact.

Educational and Cultural Role

The Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum functions as a center for education, community engagement, and remembrance. It offers guided tours, workshops, and lectures that explore the history of racial segregation, the fight for voting rights, and the ongoing struggle for social justice. The museum serves as a resource for scholars, students, and visitors interested in the civil rights era, offering a local perspective that complements the broader national narrative.

By preserving and interpreting the stories of local activists, clergy, and everyday citizens, the museum honors their courage and perseverance. It also fosters dialogue about racial equality, civil rights, and the importance of community activism today.

Visitor Information

Location: The museum is located at 460 Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Savannah, Georgia, situated in the historic district, making it accessible to visitors exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Hours of Operation: Open Thursday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last guided tour starting at 3:30 PM. The museum is closed on Sundays, Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.

Admission Fees:

Adults: $14

Seniors (65+): $8

Students (with valid ID): $7

Group rates and educational tours available by appointment

Facilities: The museum offers guided tours led by knowledgeable staff who provide in-depth context and answer visitor questions. It also has a gift shop featuring books, artwork, and memorabilia related to civil rights history.

Conclusion

The Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum is a vital cultural institution that preserves and highlights Savannah’s important contributions to the civil rights movement. Through its exhibits, archival collections, and educational programs, it provides visitors with a nuanced understanding of the local and national struggles for justice and equality. By honoring the legacy of leaders like Ralph Mark Gilbert and chronicling the resilience of Savannah’s African American community, the museum plays a crucial role in fostering awareness and inspiring ongoing efforts toward civil rights and social change.