February 16, 2018

From the Archives revealed: Black Cultural Center

Black Cultural Center Photo from Purdue Libraries Archives and Special Collections Download image

The Black Cultural Center was established in 1969 and moved into its first home, this house at 315 University St., in late 1970.  At that time, Singer A. Buchanan, coordinator of black student programs, said the BCC would be a place "where anyone feels welcome to come in for discussions, readings, social events -- or to just sit down and talk for a while.  If people … can get to know a bit more about each other it will go a long way toward mutual understanding and appreciation" (Journal & Courier, Dec. 14, 1970).  The house included offices, meeting rooms, kitchen facilities, lounges, and space for events and presentations.

This remained the home of the BCC until the current Black Cultural Center building opened at the corner of Russell and Third Streets in 1999.  Centrally located between the academic and residential communities of Purdue, the BCC features distinctive architectural design inspired by the art and architecture of ancient Africa.

Today, the Black Cultural Center “provides purposeful, holistic, scholarly and co-curricular programming designed to strengthen understanding of African American heritage.  It enhances the academic, cultural and social development of the entire Purdue community.”

The "From the Archives" photo series from Purdue Today and Purdue Libraries Archives and Special Collections will continue to share a glimpse at Purdue’s past throughout the year. More from the series can be found on the Purdue Libraries blog.


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