GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives (GRAAMA) announced it's moving to a new location by the end of 2025.
For eight years, GRAAMA has operated from 87 Monroe Center St. NW. However, in a release it says the space is not large enough to fully display the "vast and vibrant local and international African American history derived, specifically, from West Michigan."
In a release, leaders at the museum announced it will be moving to the Heartside neighborhood at 41 Sheldon Blvd. SE by the end of the year, expanding from a 2,000 to a 30,000 sq. ft. space. The new location is the previous location of Compas College of Film & Media, which closed in 2003.
"This dream has been a long time coming — but it's been worth the wait," said George Baynard III, Executive Director of GRAAMA in a release, "41 Sheldon is a perfect fit for our growing needs. We'll be able to expand our archive and exhibit spaces, add classrooms, create a library, and activate a fully equipped auditorium. This will allow us to host plays, lectures, film screenings, comedy shows, poetry slams, and a wide range of community-sponsored events."
The museum is launching a capital campaign to raise the remaining funds to launch the new vision, and is expected to release more details later this week.
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