METROPOLIS — The legacy of two influential Americans, Oscar Micheaux and Annie Turnbo Malone, will be recognized with a public dedication ceremony to establish historical markers from the Illinois State Historical Society in front of the Chamber of Commerce Building on Market Street in Metropolis on Monday, Aug. 7 at noon.

Oscar Micheaux was America’s first major African American filmmaker and is considered the predecessor of directors like Tyler Perry and Spike Lee. Annie Turnbo Malone is known as the founder of African-American cosmetology and the first female African American millionaire. Both were born and raised in Massac County, Illinois and achieved notable success during an
era of extreme racial discrimination.

Rev. Orlando McReynolds of First Missionary Baptist Church in Metropolis is responsible for establishing the markers educating the public about Micheaux and Malone.

“Oscar Micheaux & Annie Turnbo Malone are recognized both nationally and internationally. I thought it was only right that they receive recognition in their hometown of Metropolis,” McReynolds said. “In a time and era of African-American history being excluded and eliminated from school curriculums, we hope that this will be a lasting testimony of local African-American cultural contributions.”

Remarks will be given at the dedication ceremony by Rev. McReynolds and other local officials who supported establishment of the markers. If it rains, the ceremony will be held in the Metropolis Chamber of Commerce.

This initiative was supported by Illinois state and federal legislators and local city officials including Rep. Patrick Windhorst (R-Metropolis), U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Illinois), Councilman Chuck Short, Mayor Don Canada and Rick Abel Esq.

Financial support from Mary Pettus, CEO and Owner of Pettus-Rowland Funeral Home funded the establishment of the
historical markers.