SHARING THE PLANS: Daniel Pittman shares plans with the students about expanding The Jack Hadley Black History Museum into The Imperial Hotel property.

THOMASVILLE- Fifth graders from Thomas County Middle School recently had the opportunity to learn more about early African American achievers from Thomasville. One of the speakers, Jack Hadley of The Jack Hadley Black History Museum, shared many historic moments along with various events that occurred throughout his life.

Hadley, along with Daniel Pittman who is the new Executive Director, and Sarah Byrne, Museum Educator, spoke to the students about museum contents, as well as future plans for the historic Imperial Hotel.The students were surprised to learn that Hadley began collecting memorabilia in 1979 and that the museum opened in 1995. Hadley shared a presentation with students and brought many photographs and artifacts to share about events that occurred throughout his life. Hadley stated that his most proud moment was when he was privileged to take an Honor Flight from Tallahassee to Washington D.C. as a veteran to visit our nation’s memorials.

Pittman shared information about The Imperial Hotel and the fact that the hotel was the only hotel in The Green Book, along with plans for using the property to expand the museum. He also spoke about three Tuskeegee Airmen from Thomasville and showed students a helmet worn by Tuskegee Airmen Lieutenant Colonel Henry Perry.

When asked what words of wisdom he would leave with the students, Hadley said, “Treat each other with respect, no matter their color. Respect and honor your teachers and study hard. Love each other, and love God.”