Patch Picks: Celebrate Black History Month

Patch Picks has seven ways to celebrate Black History Month in the St. Louis region. 

When/Where: The show opened Feb. 2 and runs through Feb. 29. The museum is open from noon to 3 p.m., Wednesdays through Saturdays.
Why Go: The  has an extensive collection of photos that depict the everyday life of African Americans. The photos, which date from the late 1800s to the early 1900s, show families and children. Take this chance to show children photos of historic St. Charles.
Cost: There is no cost to vist the museum, although the museum does accept donations.

STORIES TO CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH AND THE GIFT OF READING 
When/Where: 10 a.m. Feb. 17, Indian Trails Branch of the St. Louis County Library, 8400 Delport Dr., Overland, MO 63114
Why Go: The library will present stories, songs, crafts and activities inspired by African American authors.
Cost: This event is free.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH STORY TIME
When/Where: This event begins at 10 a.m. Feb. 17 at Barnes and Noble, West County Mall, 113 West County Center, Des Peres, MO 63131.
Why Go: During story time, children will hear the true story of Henry Brown, a slave who mailed himself to freedom, in the book Freedom Box: A True Story of the Underground Railroad by Ellen Lavine and illustrated by Kadir Nelson.
Cost: This event is free.

BLACK HISTORY TRIVIA NIGHT 
When/Where: The trivia night starts at 6:30 p.m., Feb. 17, Natural Bridge Branch of the St. Louis County Library, 7606 Natural Bridge Rd., St. Louis, MO 63121.
Why Go: Come out for a night of friendly competition. Light refreshments will be provided. All ages are welcome, but registration is limited. Sign up at slcl.org or at any St. Louis County Library location.
Cost: This event is free.

'SHADOWBALL: THE NEGRO BASEBALL LEAGUE'
When/Where: 1 p.m. Feb. 19, Florissant Valley Branch of the St. Louis County Library, 195 South New Florissant Rd., Florissant, MO 63031
Why Go: Bobby Norfolk, an Emmy-winning performer, presents this one-man theatrical performance about the Negro Baseball Leagues.
Cost: This event is free.

GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER GARDEN

When/Where: More information on the hours of the George Washington Carver Garden, located within the Missouri Botanical Gardens, are available online.
Why Go: The garden honors the life and accomplishments of Dr. George Washington Carver. The scientist, a Missouri native, greatly influenced agriculture and education in the 19th and 20th centuries. The focal point of the garden is a life-size bronze of Carver.
Cost: The cost varies. Visit the garden’s Web site for more information.

THE GRIOT MUSEUM OF BLACK HISTORY AND CULTURE
When/Where: The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays in February and March. It is located at 2505 Saint Louis Ave.,
St. Louis, MO 63106.
Why Go: The museum features an authentic slave cabin, documentary videos and a model section of a ship that is the same size as those used to transport Africans to America.
Cost: Admission for adults costs $7.50. Admission for children under age 12 is $3.75.