Historic Chair from Dr. King's Legacy Unveiled at The Henry Ford Museum

On January 19, a significant part of American history will be on display at The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn, Michigan. This event coincides with the annual commemoration of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, honoring a pivotal figure in the fight for civil rights. The public will have a unique opportunity to view a floral upholstered living-room chair that was used by Dr. King himself during critical moments of the Civil Rights Movement. This chair originates from the historic Jackson Home in Selma, Alabama.

A Chair with a Powerful Story

This chair is not just a piece of furniture; it represents a powerful narrative from the struggle for civil rights in America. It was in this very chair that Dr. King sat while he watched President Lyndon B. Johnson's televised address about voting rights in 1965. Johnson’s speech, which promised federal intervention to ensure voting rights for all, played a significant role in catalyzing the Voting Rights Act later that same year. The Jackson Home became a sanctuary where Dr. King and other leaders strategized for the iconic marches from Selma to Montgomery, events that would resonate through decades of civil rights activism.

The unveiling of this historic chair marks its first public appearance after being meticulously preserved and transported nearly 1,000 miles from its original location. Soon, it will find its permanent home in a reconstructed Jackson Home at Greenfield Village, set to open in June 2026.

Event Details

From 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on January 19, the chair will be featured prominently in the Museum Plaza as a centerpiece for various activities celebrating Dr. King’s enduring impact. Free admission and parking will be provided for visitors, encouraging families, students, and community members to participate in a day of learning and inspiration. This gesture not only honors Dr. King's legacy but also promotes widespread access to historical education.

As part of the celebration, The Henry Ford has organized a rich program filled with performances, dramatic presentations, and discussions reflecting on the Civil Rights Movement. Among the highlights is a session with New York Times bestselling author Dr. Jeanne Theoharis, who will discuss themes from her latest book, King of the North: Martin Luther King Jr.'s Life of Struggle Outside the South. Dr. Theoharis will engage in conversation with Amber N. Mitchell, the curator of Black History at The Henry Ford, providing insights into Dr. King's work beyond the Southern states.

Legacy of The Henry Ford

Located in Dearborn, The Henry Ford is renowned for its extensive collection celebrating innovation and ingenuity in America. This institution aims not only to preserve artifacts but also to inspire future generations through hands-on learning experiences. The unveiling of the historic chair aligns with its mission of fostering understanding and appreciation for the resilience of civil rights leaders like Dr. King, whose struggle for equality continues to influence movements today.

The Henry Ford Museum is looking forward to welcoming visitors to engage with history and honor the legacy of Dr. King on this significant day.

For more information about the event and other activities, you can visit www.thehenryford.org.