Our History

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The Kannapolis African-American Museum and Cultural Center (KAA-MaCC) will be more than just a building for events.  It will be a living testament to the rich history and culture of African-Americans in Cabarrus and Rowan County, North Carolina. We envision a place where stories are told, memories are preserved, and connections are made. It will become a place where you can learn, explore, and celebrate the contributions of the African-American people to the community and the nation.

Getting to Know KAA-MaCC

KAA-MaCC was founded in 2013 by Dr. Ruby L. Anthony-White, M.D., a descendant of former slaves, a native of Kannapolis, North Carolina,  and a physician. She had a vision to create a museum and cultural center that would serve as a bridge between the African-American community and the public, fostering inclusiveness, diversity, and engagement. She also wanted to honor the legacy of her ancestors and the generations of African-Americans who lived, worked, and thrived in Cabarrus and Rowan County.

Inspired by her family history and the stories of other African-Americans who had made significant contributions to the region and the nation, Dr. Anthony-White and her niece, Jacqueline L. Anthony, decided to create a nonprofit organization that would collect and preserve the history and culture of African-Americans in Cabarrus and Rowan County, North Carolina. 

Since then, KAA-MaCC, as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has grown from an idea to a reality and has been working tirelessly to fulfill its vision and mission thanks to the support of donors, volunteers, partners, and friends.  To raise public awareness and support for its cause, KAA-MaCC has hosted various events, exhibits, programs, and initiatives that showcase the history and culture of African-Americans in the region. KAA-MaCC has also partnered with local institutions, such as Cabarrus County Public Library, Hood Theological Seminary, and The Laureate Center to host some of its programs and activities.

One of the most exciting and challenging programs of KAA-MaCC is the Vision 2026 Initiative, which aims to build a state-of-the-art museum and cultural center that will serve as a national model for documenting, interpreting, and presenting local history and culture. The Vision 2026 Initiative will also create opportunities for economic development, community engagement, and social justice in the area. By 2026, KAA-MaCC hopes to have begun building a permanent home that will welcome visitors from all walks of life and inspire them to learn more about the African-American heritage of Kannapolis and beyond.

Our museum and cultural center is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of our community. We offer various programs, events, and activities that celebrate our traditions and foster a sense of community. From virtual webinars to art exhibitions, there is something for everyone at the Kannapolis African-American Museum and Cultural Center. Our center is open to people of all ages and backgrounds, and we welcome everyone to join us in celebrating our diverse community.