DuSable Museum Overview
The DuSable Museum of African American History was founded in 1961 by Dr. Margaret Burroughs and her husband, Charles Burroughs. Dr. Burroughs is an artist, teacher, and art historian.The museum is dedicated to preserving, studying, and exploring the experience of Americans of African descent. The collections and programming cover a wide range of topics, including arts, culture, and the collection and preservation of more than 50,000 artifacts. It is one of the only independent institutions of its kind in the country.
The museum was named for explorer Jean Baptiste Point DuSable, who was among the first settlers to arrive in Chicago in 1779.
DuSable Museum Location
740 East 56th Place(On the corner of Cottage Grove and 57th Street)
Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 947-0600
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DuSable Museum Hours
The DuSable Museum’s hours vary depending on the time of year. Below you’ll find the general hours followed by the exceptions. You may want to call to confirm the museum is open before you go.Mondays through Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sundays: Noon to 5 p.m. and FREE df
Exceptions: The museum is closed on Mondays from June 1 through January 2. IT’s also closed on the third and fourth Saturday and Sunday in February, on Easter, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
DuSable Admission
All are FREE on SundaysOther Days:
Adults: $3
Seniors (62 and over) and Students with ID: $2
Children 6 to 12: $1
Children under 6: FREE
DuSable Museum Tips – Good to Know Before You Go
- Permanent exhibitions include: Africa Speaks, Paintings/Drawings/Sculptures by prominent black artists, and the Freedom Now mural by Illinois sculptor Robert Witt Ames.
- The Museum is handicap accessible.
- Strollers are permitted throughout the museum, but they may be limited on high traffic days.
- Some wheelchairs are available for use but should be reserved ahead of time by calling (773) 947-0600, x225.