In the heart of Richmond, Indiana, a quiet revolution in community history and cultural preservation is unfolding — and at its helm is Marlene Lindsey, a native daughter whose passion is reshaping how local Black history is recorded, shared, and honored.
Marlene Lindsey is the founder and driving force behind the Black Legacy Project of Wayne County (BLPWC), a volunteer-powered nonprofit dedicated to documenting and celebrating the contributions of African Americans in Wayne County. What began as an idea in 2021 has grown into a powerful community resource, bringing untold stories into the public eye for students, historians, and residents alike.
A Local History Revolution
Lindsey’s journey started with a simple but urgent realization: much of the Black community’s history in Wayne County was undocumented, overlooked, or fading from public memory. Determined to change that, she launched the Black Legacy Project with a clear mission — to inform, educate, and make accessible the rich legacy of Black residents past and present.
Under her leadership, the organization has built a growing archive that includes:
- A searchable database of local figures, from educators and entrepreneurs to spirit-led community leaders
- Oral histories from those whose voices echo lived experience
- Artifacts and records that bring bold, vibrant narratives out of obscurity and into community awareness
By bridging generations, Lindsey’s work helps students and scholars alike explore the interconnected threads of heritage, identity, and community resilience.
From Grassroots to Community Impact
The Black Legacy Project isn’t just about preservation — it’s about active engagement. With support from partners like Indiana Humanities, the organization secured an Action Grant to launch Making Black History Accessible, a suite of programs that brought Black history to life inside and outside museum walls. One standout initiative was the free-admission exhibit at the Wayne County Historical Museum, titled Our Legacy: 1800 and Beyond.
Lindsey emphasized the importance of digital access to this history, noting that young people deserve the opportunity to explore their heritage online as easily as they scroll through social media. Her belief that “the best way to have access is digital” reflects a forward-thinking approach to community education and historical preservation.
A Living Legacy for Future Generations
Today, the Black Legacy Project has become a hub for celebrations, exhibitions, and community dialogues that spotlight Black excellence and resilience in Wayne County. From annual expos to collaborative events with local universities, Lindsey’s vision has sparked a cultural shift — transforming historical reflection into community celebration and empowerment.
Whether through database entries, oral history recordings, or public programs, Lindsey and her team are ensuring that Black history in Wayne County isn’t lost — it’s lived and shared.
