March 22, 2025

2nd Annual Fundraising Gala

Legacy Ascending: 2nd Annual Fundraising Gala Recap

On March 22, 2025, History on Wheels proudly hosted its 2nd Annual Fundraising Gala: Legacy Ascending — an evening filled with inspiration, unity, and celebration of Black excellence in history and community.

The gala marked another significant milestone in our journey to open the African Descendants Military and Historical Museum (ADMHM) — Will County’s first African American museum. Thanks to the unwavering support of our sponsors, guests, and community partners, the night was a tremendous success.

✨ Highlights from the Evening Included:

Presentation of Colors by the outstanding Joliet Central High School JROTC, setting a tone of dignity and respect
A powerful keynote address by Emmy-nominated producer and antiracist educator Ernest Crim III, who challenged us to honor our legacy by investing in education, equity, and truth
A soul-stirring flute performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by Melinda Patterson, moving every heart in the room
Uplifting clean comedy by Stephon Raickett, bringing joy and laughter to our guests
Music by DJ Ransom, who kept the evening energized and lively
Masterful emceeing by Tanya Arias, Township Trustee and President of the Collins Street Neighborhood Council, who guided the program with poise and passion
A vibrant silent auction featuring donated artwork by Lonnie Posley Sr., owner of Gifted Hands Art Gallery
Sweet treats and custom-branded dessert display from Angie’s Treats and Balloons of Elwood
A fun and engaging 360 Photo Booth experience sponsored by The Thurmond Foundation
Gift card donation from GourmetBaskets.com, supporting our silent auction

We are especially grateful to our Board of Directors, our dedicated families, and our entire community of supporters who continue to stand with us in this important work.

Your generous contributions are helping us turn vision into reality — bringing to life a space that will honor the legacies of African descendants in military service and beyond.

📷 Stay tuned for photo highlights and video recaps — coming soon!

🔗 Learn more about our mission and upcoming events at www.historyonwheels.org

THANK YOU!!

2025 Gala Sponsors

Your unwavering support made this unforgettable evening possible. Because of your generosity and commitment, the 2nd Annual History on Wheels Gala: Legacy Ascending was not only a success — it was a celebration of legacy, culture, and community.

Honored Achievement

NAACP Community Involvement Award

We are proud to announce that History on Wheels, under the leadership of our founder and board president, Luther Johnson, has been honored with the NAACP Community Involvement Award from the local Joliet chapter. This prestigious award recognizes our dedication to preserving African American heritage and our active role in enriching the community.

Luther Johnson accepted this award on behalf of History on Wheels, highlighting our commitment to transforming the historically landmarked building into the first African American museum in Joliet. This accolade underscores the impact of our work and inspires us to continue our mission of education, preservation, and community engagement.

Thank you to the NAACP Joliet chapter for this incredible recognition and to our supporters and sponsors who make our work possible.

Saturday, March 23, 2024

First Annual Fundraising Gala

What an unforgettable evening at The First Annual History on Wheels, Dawn of a Legacy Gala. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our guest who purchased tickets to join us. Your overwhelming support filled the room with energy and enthusiasm, and we are truly grateful. Without you, the vision of the African Descendants Military and Historical Museum would not be possible.