From Collector to Curator: Fred Watson’s 25-Year Journey into Black History

Every great museum starts with a story, and the story of the Black Artifacts Museum begins with Fred Watson. What started as a hobby in his early years evolved into a life mission spanning over two decades. With a deep interest in Black history and culture, Mr. Watson began collecting artifacts that told stories he felt were often missing from mainstream narratives.

Raised in Chicago and educated at an HBCU, Fred’s personal background shaped his passion for representation and historical preservation. For 25 years, he hunted for objects—books, photographs, tools, documents, posters, and personal effects—that reflected the full spectrum of the Black experience in America. He sought not only to document the painful chapters of racism and injustice but also to honor moments of brilliance, leadership, creativity, and community.

In 2023, that passion took on a new form with the founding of B.A.M. Fred transitioned from private collector to public educator, opening his collection to people across Metropolitan Atlanta and beyond. Now, his mission is clear: to use artifacts to connect people with the past in a way that inspires reflection, empathy, and empowerment. His journey shows how one person’s love for history can impact thousands—and keep our stories alive.