ARTS & CULTURE
The Woodson Museum is a shining star in
St. Pete’s African American community
American History Museum (also referred to as the Woodson),
you will always be met with the smell of simmering potpourri. It
never fails, and I personally feel a sort of reassurance knowing
there are some things you can just count on. It’s a small yet
memorable thing that not only appeals, it speaks to the homey
intimacy and warmth of this space – hardly adjectives you
would think of for a museum, but true nonetheless.
It even looks like a home. It has windows and French doors
that lead to the lovely Legacy Garden. The layout is simple
and inviting – bright and airy. There are shelves full of books.
You just feel good to be visiting for any of the multiple reasons
you would have to do so. If you’ve visited the Woodson, you
know exactly what I mean. If you haven’t…..well then, your
experience of St. Petersburg is woefully incomplete.
Located in South St. Petersburg, on the “Deuces” as the area
along the 22nd St. South corridor is known, the Woodson, for
good or bad, has become the keeper of the area’s rich African-
50 StPeteLifeMag.com November/December 2018
American cultural legacy. Good because they are more than
up to the task. Bad, because so many iconic venues of the past
have fallen away, leaving a great responsibility to the Woodson
to tell the stories, share the art, and celebrate the residents.
like current president Dana Battle, and incredibly dedicated
volunteers. But the force behind what makes the Woodson all
that it is, is the unstoppable Terri Lipsey Scott. Scott joined
the Woodson in 2008 as a board member, then became chair
and ultimately took the mantle as Executive Director last
year. She brings with her a unique love of art, education, and
community – all the elements that bring diversity, engagement,
and dialogue to each and every exhibit and event. The house
is packed for every museum happening, and Scott knows how
to throw a party. The food is always delectable, the decor
always impressive and elegant, the activities memorable and
thought provoking. To accomplish this predominantly through
volunteerism? It’s just damned impressive.
Art. Soul. Community.
BY CINDY STOVALL
/StPeteLifeMag.com