Honoring Our Legacy

At The National A Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum, we celebrate the achievements of the first black labor union, honoring our past while educating future generations through events and exhibitions.

Discover More

Our Core Mission

Honoring the Legacy of Black Labor

At The National A Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum, located at 10406 S Maryland Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60628, our mission is to promote, honor and celebrate the legacy of A. Philip  Randolph and the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters ( BSCP) first black labor union to be chartered under the AFL and the contributions made by African Americans to America's labor movement; with a significant focus on the African American Railroad Employee. As we educate the public about their historic legacy and the contributions they made through the study, preservation, and interpretation of their stories that are inextricably intertwined.
​ Inspired by that legacy we celebrate significant events such as Black History Month, the Annual Gentle Warrior Gala, Women's History Month in March, Black Music Month in June, and the labor movement from August 25 through Labor Day with back-to-school giveaways and holiday giveaways around Thanksgiving and Christmas. We aim to educate the public on these important contributions and support community development through cultural events.

Historical Overview

Our Journey Through Time

1925 - The Founding of the BSCP

The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP) was founded by A. Philip Randolph and Ashley Totten. This was a landmark event in American labor history, as it was the first Black labor union to be chartered under the American Federation of Labor (AFL).

1937 - Pullman Company and BSCP Contract

After a long and difficult struggle, the Pullman Company finally signed a contract with the BSCP. This was a major victory for the union, as it secured better wages, working conditions, and job security for the Pullman porters.

1995 - The Founding of the Museum

The A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum was founded by Dr. Lyn Hughes. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of the Pullman porters and their contributions to the labor movement and the African American community.

2015 - The Museum Celebrates 20 Years

The museum celebrated its 20th anniversary. This was a major milestone for the museum, as it demonstrated its commitment to preserving and promoting the legacy of the Pullman porters.

2025 - Major Milestones

The museum will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters and its own 30th anniversary. This will be a major event for the museum, as it will provide an opportunity to reflect on the union's achievements and its impact on American history.

The NAPRPPM Board

A group of six people in formal attire pose on a red carpet at the Gentle Warrior Awards Gala.

Dr. David Peterson, Museum President
​Dr. Lyn Hughes, Founder & Board Chair

Don Villar, Sect/Treasurer Chicago Federation of Labor
Sylvia Chapman, President, CWA Local 4250/CTU 16
Sandra D. Robinson, Treasurer, NAPRPPM- Retired Illinois Nurses Assoc.
Darren Byrd, Business Representative, IBEW Local 134

Cultural Significance

Key Events and Recognitions

Black History Month

Honor the contributions of African American laborers, commemorating their vital role in the labor movement throughout February.

Gentle Warrior Awards

An annual celebration recognizing individuals and organizations for their contributions towards empowerment and community growth.

Juneteenth Celebration

Join us as we celebrate this important occasion marking freedom and acknowledging the significance of the Black labor movement in our heritage.

Exterior of A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum with mural and historic photo on brick wall.

Visitor Information

Plan Your Visit

Under Construction - Reopening Summer 2025

Contact Us

  • (773) 850 - 8580
  • talktous@aprppmuseum.org
  • 10406 S Maryland Ave, Chicago, IL 60628
  • Mon - Fri: 10:00am - 4:00pm (once we reopen Summer 2025)

Visitor's Guide

The National A Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum is a non-profit museum honoring the legacy of the first black labor union. Join us for our special events, including Black History Month, the Annual Gentle Warrior Awards, Women's History Month in March, Black Music Month in June, and a celebration of the labor movement from August 25 thru Labor Day, featuring back-to-school and holiday giveaways for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Learn More