CAIRO, Ill. — The Cairo Historical Preservation Project, Inc. is partnering with local Illinois universities to showcase the region’s history as defined by the African American community.

The Heritage Trail and Oral History Project offer an interactive experience around the city’s historic landmarks that allows for visitors to learn about the rich cultural history of Cairo, Illinois.

Don Patton, President of the Cairo Historical Preservation Project said the program was designed to educate people about the African American history of the city from 1855 to 1960. He said the project is in its fourth year, having already supporting numerous projects including the Magnolia Manor, the Cairo Custom House, and the Cairo Public Library.

He said the importance of the project comes from preserving the voices and memories of those who came before. “When an elder dies, it’s like a library burning to the ground,” he said. “And so the Oral History part of the program is to tell the history of those individuals that are seniors or elders right now, so that we can leave it for the next generation.”

In regards to leaving a legacy, Patton said it’s important for people younger than himself to bear witness and to hear the information as to keep the knowledge alive.

The Cairo African American Heritage Trail & Oral History Project officially launched on Friday, Dec. 5. Beginning at 5 p.m., at the Cairo High and Junior High School campus cafeteria, the public was invited to attend the launch event featuring refreshments and a musical performance by students.

The Heritage Trail features historic landmarks spread throughout the city of Cairo which highlight the cultural contributions of the Black community. QR codes are available at certain locations that tell the story through oral interviews with long-time residents.

For more information, visit The Cairo Historical Preservation Project’s website online.