SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - The Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum is preparing to reopen in its new location, which board members expect to be the facility's permanent home.
A grand opening ceremony was held Thursday night to celebrate the museum's new home in a refurbished building next to the Oak Ridge Cemetery. Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner, Springfield Mayor Jim Langfelder and Sangamon County officials were among those in attendance.
Museum board president Douglas King says the proximity to President Abraham Lincoln's tomb will attract visitors to the new location.
The museum is dedicated to telling the stories of African-Americans in Springfield and the surrounding communities, including the contribution of black soldiers in the Civil War.
The museum will open to the public Tuesday.
