First African American Studies Field Trips Make the Grade!
January 26, 2022:
The Museum’s first round of field trip programs as part of Frisco ISD’s African American Studies course received enthusiastic praise from students and administrators. Offered as an elective in all 11 FISD high schools, the course was developed in response to students' desires to study the topic. It is an interest-based program, allowing students to tailor their studies to meet their specific curiosity about African American history and culture.
The program celebrates the contributions of African Americans in the railroad industry, as well as the social and economic impact rail has had on their lives. Emphasis is on the role of Pullman Porters and their efforts to improve their standard of living and ultimately advance civil rights.
In the image above, Professor Melissa Johnson reads quotes from Pullman Porters as part of the Museum's presentation on their lives and roles in establishing the black middle class and the advancement of civil rights. Professor Johnson has a depth of knowledge on all aspects of the Pullman Company.
The field trips took place over two weeks in November and December. We received positive comments from many of the 250 students enrolled in the course.
“I really enjoyed learning about this time period and seeing the train cars, it was almost like walking through a snapshot of what those porters lived.”
“It was a great and eye-opening experience as I learned more about the impact of a group of African Americans and what life was like for them during this period.”
“I honestly was not expecting such a rich portion of African American History to be in Frisco.”
“My experience was filled with knowledge and learning. The overall is a 10/10.”
“I joyfully shared what I learned and experienced at the Museum. Overall, it was very insightful, entertaining, and fascinating. I am very grateful to have gotten a scoop of the trains, their background, and of the Museum’s efforts to maintain their history.”
“I liked being able to be inside the actual train, it was very insightful. I liked all the original items that were kept in the trains. It gave a good insight on what the trains were like for the passengers and the workers as well.”
Field trips are a blend of interactive lecture presentations and walking tours of the Museum’s historic 1920s-era Pullman sleeping cars. The Metra Electric commuter cars are also featured, with a presentation focused on their role in urban life in South Chicago neighborhoods.
“This is one of the most rewarding educational programs we’ve embarked on to date,” said Museum COO Kellie Murphy, who helped in its development. “It’s a perfect fit for our museum and the district.”
We are very grateful to Professor Melissa Johnson for taking time out of her busy schedule at Collin College to volunteer as a presenter each of the five days of the program. Professor Johnson spent several years on the Museum's staff and continues to study the fascinating history of the Pullman Company.
Our special thanks to Patience LeBlanc, FISD Secondary Social Studies Coordinator, and the Frisco School District for giving us the opportunity to contribute to this groundbreaking and essential ethnic studies program. The students were an absolute delight, making delivery of these programs such an enjoyable and rewarding experience for the Museum’s staff and volunteers. Dates have already been set for next year’s field trips!
Below is a short FISD video on the African American Studies program. The Museum of the American Railroad is featured at the 2-minute mark.