Located in Hyannis, the Zion Union Heritage Museum stands as a testament to the 
rich cultural tapestry of the community. Established with a mission to preserve, celebrate, and educate, this museum serves as a guardian of local history, weaving together the diverse stories that have shaped the region.
Celebrating the Cape’s Diverse History
Diversity is a cornerstone of the Zion Union Heritage Museum. By celebrating the contributions of different ethnicities, religions, and social groups, the museum fosters a spirit of inclusivity, inviting all to appreciate the mosaic of stories that have shaped the community. The Museum celebrates the proud history of African-Americans, Cape Verdeans, and the Wampanoag people of Cape Cod, as well as groups that arrived here more recently from Brazil and the Caribbean.
History through Dynamic Exhibitions
Visitors to the Zion Union Heritage Museum embark on a captivating journey through time. Within the exhibit displays, discover the profound history of numerous local Cape Cod residents whose invaluable contributions to the community would fade into obscurity without the presence of this museum, and explore curated artifacts highlighting the Cape Verdean influence on both the cranberry and whaling industries in the region.
Unveiling the Canvas of Heritage: Where Art Transcends Time
One of the museum’s focal points is the showcasing of art – from artifacts and photographs to oral histories passed down through generations, the museum carefully curates these treasures, providing a tangible link to the past and fostering a deep appreciation for the community’s heritage. The extensive art collection at the Zion Union Heritage Museum includes works by resident artist Robin Joyce Miller, whose creations vividly chronicle the journey of African-Americans, from the era of slavery and the challenging “Middle Passage” to the historic inauguration of our first black President, Barack Obama.
From Mission to Sanctuary
Beyond its role as a repository of history, the Zion Union Heritage Museum is a dynamic community Chapel. Established in 1909 by William Drew, Elijah Richardson, and Hamilton Jackson, the Zion Union Mission initially served as a summer church for domestic workers as a response to a woman named Mrs. Anderson, who felt unwelcome at existing local churches. The original mission transformed into The Zion Union Church in 1962, and after outgrowing its original location, the congregation later built a new church on Crispus Attucks Way in Hyannis.
Embracing Legacy, Igniting Future: Join the Zion Union Heritage Museum for Black History Month
In addition to their work in preserving and commemorating the past, the Zion Union Heritage Museum honor Black History Month each year with educational events and activities. These events spotlight the triumphs and challenges faced by people of color in this region. This year includes a collaboration with the Cotuit Center for the Arts, “Journeys in the Light: Democracy, Diversity and Myth in the Wake of the Mayflower”. Check out their Facebook page for more information about this dynamic event.
Elevate History, Engage Community: Join the Museum’s Mission
If you are looking to support the mission of the Museum and get involved, there are memberships available as well as many diverse opportunities for volunteering. Additionally, you can explore a diverse array of gifts at the Museum Store, and discover traditional treasures like sculptures, figurines, hand-beaded necklaces, and earrings, alongside an extensive collection of art that beautifully capture the essence of African-American and Cape Verdean history.
Bridging Time and Tradition with Community
The Zion Union Heritage Museum stands not just as a repository of artifacts but as a living testament to the resilience, creativity, and diversity of the community it represents. By preserving the past, the museum illuminates the path forward, ensuring that the stories of those who came before are woven into the fabric of the community’s future.
In celebration of Black History Month, check out our posts about Nantucket’s Museum of African American History & Culture, the African American Heritage Trail in Martha’s Vineyard, and Margaret Moseley, a local civil rights activist.
