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Shreveport Highlights Historic Freedman’s Bank Exhibit

An exhibit showcasing the rich history of Freedman's Bank in Shreveport.

News Summary

This February, the LSUS Spring Street Museum in Shreveport unveils a new exhibit celebrating the legacy of the Freedman’s Savings and Trust Company. As Shreveport’s first financial institution for freedmen, the bank represents a key part of African American history post-Civil War. Visitors can explore local records and photographs that highlight the importance of banking for economic empowerment within the community, showcasing how the bank helped individuals purchase land and improve their lives.

Shreveport Celebrates Its Rich Banking History with Special Exhibit!

Get ready, Shreveport! This February, the LSUS Spring Street Museum is rolling out a fascinating new exhibit that takes visitors on a journey back in time to explore the legacy of the Freedman’s Savings and Trust Company. This significant bank was Shreveport’s first financial institution established specifically for freedmen, making it an important chapter in the city’s history and a vital part of the African American experience following the Civil War.

The Birth of Freedman’s Banks

To understand the significance of this exhibit, it’s essential to remember why Freedman’s Banks were created in the first place. Set up by the U.S. Congress during the Reconstruction era, these banks were designed to aid recently freed African Americans, helping them navigate a world of economic opportunities that were previously out of reach. Shreveport’s Freedman’s Bank opened its doors as the second institution of its kind in Louisiana, right after the first one popped up in New Orleans. It was also part of an initial group of 30 branches that opened across the country during this transformative time.

A Unique Historical Landmark

The LSUS Spring Street Museum, located in the original building of the Freedman’s Savings and Trust Company—constructed all the way back in the 1860s—provides a fitting backdrop for this special exhibit. The museum’s coordinator of museum services highlights the city’s unique connection to this important aspect of American history, reminding us just how crucial banking and financial inclusion were for African Americans seeking to build a better life.

Economic Empowerment Through Banking

The establishment of the Freedman’s Bank marked a significant moment in history, as it represented the first time that people of color were included in the federal banking system. This came on the heels of an act of Congress passed in 1865 designed to facilitate economic participation among formerly enslaved individuals. As the economy shifted to a wage-based system, access to banking services became vital.

What You’ll See at the Exhibit

The exhibit is packed with local records and photographs that tell the story of this important financial institution. It showcases how a local African American cashier, Samuel Peters, skillfully operated the bank, meeting the pressing needs of the community. Visitors will have the chance to view an old copy of the Caddo Gazette, which boasts about the impressive accomplishment of attracting over $3,000 in deposits during the first three weeks of operation—a clear indication of the demand for banking services among freedmen.

The Role of Freedman’s Bank in Shreveport

Location was key when choosing to establish the bank in Shreveport, as the area had a significant population of freedmen compared to other racial groups at that time. The bank attracted a whopping 1,152 different deposits in its first three weeks, showing just how much the community valued the opportunity to engage in banking.

Empowering Generations

The Freedman’s Bank wasn’t merely a place to store money; it lent funds that allowed African Americans to purchase land, homes, farm animals, and tools—paving the way for economic empowerment in the community. Among its patrons, Sarah Jones stands out as the first African American woman to bank at the institution, highlighting just how impactful this organization was for women during that time.

Visit the Exhibit

The exhibit is open for everyone to visit from Monday to Friday between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. and, the best part? Admission is completely free throughout February! This is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about an essential part of Shreveport’s banking history and its legacy of resilience and progress.

So, mark your calendars and gather your friends and family for this enlightening experience at the LSUS Spring Street Museum. It’s your chance to dive deep into the rich history of the Freedman’s Bank and celebrate the contributions of African Americans in shaping the local economy. Don’t miss out!