Jefferson City Community Donates $540 to Lincoln University Archives

The Lincoln University of Missouri Archives received a $540 donation from the Jefferson City Legacy Tour during a ceremony at Page Library on August 7, 2024.

On Wednesday, August 7, 2024, a donation of $540 was presented to the Lincoln University Archives from Jefferson City community members. The donation, which was raised from the Jefferson City Legacy Tour held on June 21, 2024, was presented to LU during a ceremony in Page Library.

“Whether the money was used for continuing education, supplies and equipment or other archival work, we understood the importance of Lincoln’s Archives Division in maintaining and telling Lincoln University’s story,” says Jefferson City Legacy Tour organizer Julie Allen. 

The tour, organized for members of Race Onward, a consortium of Columbia, Missouri churches, offered participants a unique glimpse into Jefferson City’s rich history. Attendees explored stories from the early 1800s, including notable figures such as celebrated local chefs, a young Civil War hero and the founders of Lincoln Institute — heroes from the 62nd and 65th United States Colored Troops. All proceeds from tours go to local nonprofits.

“We appreciate the generosity of the Legacy Tour, and it was our honor to collaborate with them in celebrating the heritage of our community,” said Director of Lincoln University Archives & Ethnic Studies Center Mark Schleer.

Michelle Brooks, a tour volunteer, highlighted the impact of the tour: “The history of a place is powerful," she says. "Our work helps elevate the history of Black people who helped build Jefferson City into what it is today.”

The $540 from the tour proceeds will directly benefit Lincoln's Archives Division, supporting their efforts to preserve and share the university's historical legacy.

“Julie Allen has done an excellent job of coordinating the tours, and we thank her for including Lincoln University as part of the project,” Schleer says. “The donation will be used for professional development that will assist in upgrading our technical and digitization abilities.”

Other groups or community members interested in taking a JC Legacy Tour can contact Julie Allen at: julieallenfort@gmail.com.