Beck Cultural Exchange Center
Beck Cultural Exchange Center:
Preserving Knoxville's Black History and Culture
“The Mission of Beck is to be the place where Black history and culture and preserved, nurtured, taught, & continued." -Beck Cultural Exchange Center
Introduction: Honoring Knoxville's Black Heritage
Knoxville’s rich Black history is deeply rooted in the stories of resilience, leadership, and cultural contributions that have shaped the city. At the heart of this legacy is the Beck Cultural Exchange Center, a vital institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and achievements of African Americans in Knoxville and beyond.
What is the Beck Cultural Exchange Center?
Founded in 1975, the Beck Cultural Exchange Center has become the historical hub for Black Heritage in East Tennessee. The center serves as a repository for Black history, preserving artifacts, documents, and photographs that tell the stories of past and present generations.
The mission of Beck is to research, collect, preserve, and promote African American history and Culture through exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement. The center not only celebrates historical figures but also shines a light on contemporary leaders and changemakers within Knoxville’s Black community.
Beck Cultural Exchange Center Offerings
The Beck Archives: A vast collection of documents, photographs, and oral histories that provide insight into Knoxville’s Black history.
Permanent & Special Exhibits: Showcasing significant events, influential figures, and movements that have shaped Black culture in Knoxville.
Historic Home Restoration: Beck is leading the effort to restore the home of William Hastie, the first African American governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands and a pivotal figure in civil rights history.
Educational Programming: Workshops, lectures, and events designed to educate and inspire visitors of all ages.
Image Credit: (MHM, 2025)
The Impact on Knoxville's Black Community
The Beck Cultural Exchange Center is more than just a museum, it’s a living archive of black excellence, provides for education, and center for advocacy.
Through its programs and initiatives, Beck:
Strengthens the cultural identity of Knoxville’s Black community.
Provides educational resources for students, researchers, and the general public.
Supports local Black artists, writers, and creatives through exhibits and collaborations.
Encourages meaningful conversations about history, social justice, and the future of Black Knoxville.
Beck’s work ensures that Black history is not forgotten but honored and integrated into Knoxville’s larger narrative.
How to Support and Get Involved
The Beck Cultural Exchange Center relies on community support to continue its vital mission. Here’s how you can contribute:
Visit the Center: Take a guided tour and experience the history firsthand.
Donate: Support Beck’s preservation efforts through financial contributions.
Volunteer: Assist with events, research, or administrative tasks to help the center thrive.
Attend Events: Engage with history through Beck’s educational programs, exhibits, and cultural celebrations.
Spread the Word: Share the stories of Beck and Knoxville’s Black History with others.
Learn more about the Beck Cultural Exchange Center here.
Beck's Black History Month Events 2025
February 16th: UTK Green Book, Orange Book Dinner and Discussion 6 pm @ Beck Center
February 17th: UUNIK Academy: Black History 101 Mobile Museum 10 am - 3 pm
February 20th: AARP Fraud Prevention Townhall @11 am
February 23rd: Racial Justice: The Talk 6 pm
February 24th: Freedom Schools Jack & Jill: Living Museum 11 - 1 pm
February 24th: Future Black History makers Career Fair 11 am - 1 pm @ Beck Center
February 26th: Black Achievement Celebration Brian Clay & the Art Community @ The Bijou / Doors open 5:30 pm | Program: 6:30 pm
Thank You Beck Cultural Exchange Center!
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Beck Cultural Exchange Center for their dedication to preserving, educating, and celebrating Black history in Knoxville. Their work ensures that the stories, struggles, and triumphs of African Americans remain an integral part of our shared heritage.
Because of Beck, generations to come will have access to a rich cultural archive that honors the past while inspiring the future. Thank you for being a cornerstone of history, culture, and empowerment in our community.
Connect With Us
Email: [email protected]
