Conversations in Indiana African American History and Culture
Historians, researchers, and educators share their knowledge of Indiana’s Black heritage.
Select Thursdays
6 p.m. EDT
Indiana Landmarks Center, 1201 Central Ave., Indianapolis and Online
In this recurring series presented by Freetown Village, historians, researchers, and educators discuss topics related to Indiana’s Black heritage, followed by question-and-answer sessions. Sponsored by Indiana Landmarks’ Black Heritage Preservation Program, Indiana Humanities, IUI Africana Studies, and Association of the Study of African American Life and History Joseph Taylor Branch.
View all upcoming Freetown Village events at freetownvillage.org/new-events.
July 16, 2026
6 p.m. EDT (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
Indiana Landmarks Center, 1201 Central Ave., Indianapolis and Online
The History and Legacy of Roberts Settlement
Bryan Glover, vice president and board chair of Roberts Settlement, shares the history of the Hamilton County community founded in 1835 by free people of color seeking freedom, opportunity, and self‑determination. From the Coastal Plain of North Carolina to the fields of present‑day Hamilton County, this pioneering Black community has endured, adapted, and thrived for nearly two centuries. Their story is one of faith, resilience, and an unwavering pursuit of liberty. Today, descendants continue to preserve this remarkable heritage and celebrate the enduring bonds that have connected generations.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. at Indiana Landmarks Center and talk begins at 6 p.m. in person and online. Free with RSVP. Learn more and register a https://www.eventbrite.com/e/conversations-in-indiana-african-american-history-culture-71626-registration-1982362295991
Questions? Contact Marriam Umar, Freetown Village Program Director, at marriam@freetownvillage.org or 317-631-1870.
August 20, 2026
6 p.m. EDT (Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)
Indiana Landmarks Center, 1201 Central Ave., Indianapolis and Online
Fast Times & Fierce Determination: Inside Charlie Wiggins’ Historic Journey
Join us for a deep dive into the thrilling and complex life of legendary race car driver Charlie Wiggins. Exploring the dualities of his era, this presentation retraces his unstoppable passion for racing, examines the barriers he faced in a segregated sport, and celebrates the monumental legacy of his historic achievement, “The Tale of the Three One Hundreds.” Angi Rogers, great-niece of Charlie Wiggins, guides us through her family’s remarkable history and her uncle’s enduring impact on motorsports.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. at Indiana Landmarks Center and talk begins at 6 p.m. in person and online. Free with RSVP. Learn more and register a https://www.eventbrite.com/e/conversations-in-indiana-african-american-history-culture-82026-registration-1991296825409
Questions? Contact Marriam Umar, Freetown Village Program Director, at marriam@freetownvillage.org or 317-631-1870.