Gen. Daniel “Chappie” James Jr. Museum of Pensacola

The Gen. Daniel “Chappie” James Jr. Museum of Pensacola occupies the National Register-listed childhood home of Pensacola native Daniel “Chappie” James Jr., a Tuskegee Airmen flight instructor who became the first African American four-star general in the U.S. Armed Forces. His mother, Lillie Ann James, opened a small school behind the home to educate Black children in the community, and the property became a center of local education.

The museum is at 1606 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr, Pensacola, FL 32503, 850-542-4721, chappiejamesmuseum.org. It commemorates General James’s life and career and presents his mother’s school and its place in the community, with an emphasis on the leadership values he championed: discipline, teamwork, self-esteem and confidence.

The museum opened with a grand opening on June 7, 2018. It is the result of a partnership between the Eastside Neighborhood Association and the City of Pensacola’s Community Redevelopment Agency, with support from the Florida Division of Cultural Affairs. The General Daniel Chappie James Flight Academy operates next door.

The museum lists hours of Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 3pm, and groups of more than 14 need an appointment (email chappiejames6@gmail.com). Parking is available in a small lot at 410 E Moreno St or on the street along Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Check with the museum about admission.