The origin of Black History Month can be traced to the 1915 collaboration of historian Carter G. Woodson and civic leader Jesse E. Moorland, co-founders of the organization now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). The group sponsored a national Negro History week in February of 1926. This was a time when many Americans were already commemorating the birthday of Abraham Lincoln, while Black communities were commemorating the birthday of Frederick Douglas--two American greats whose life work had a profound impact on Black American history.
Fifty years later, with a push from the educated intellectual younger generation, the Association leveraged its influence to shift from a week to a month long celebration. Since President Gerald R. Ford's official recognition in 1976, every American president--regardless of party affiliation--has recognized Black History Month and endorsed the annual theme.
Panoply Books recognizes the significance of this history for Americans of all ethnic backgrounds. Even the offensive material offers some important--if not favorable--commentary on our culture and values. Panoply Books was honored to acquire a wonderful, extensive and diverse collection of Black Americana to deepen our formerly more modest selection. Our current collection of Black Americana is focused on vintage books, with subjects ranging from history, biographies, academia, fiction, poetry and art.
February may be the official Black History Month, but it is a history to be remembered--and collected--all year. Panoply continues to add to our collection with new listings every week. "Black memorabilia, sometimes called Black Americana, describes objects and ephemera relating to African American and Afro-European history. Most of this material was produced from the 18th through the 20th centuries. Frequently, these household items reflect racist ideas about black people through offensive and dehumanizing caricatures. However, black memorabilia also encompasses objects with positive connotations, commemorating civil rights advances or achievements by scholars, artists, musicians, athletes, politicians, and other members of the black community." (collectors' weekly)
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