In 1983, Doctors Elmer and Joanne Martin opened a wax museum, the first of its kind in the nation, as well as, Baltimore, Maryland of African Americans leaders that were made of wax.

Their objectives were:

1. To stimulate an interest in African American

history.

2. To use great leaders as role models to motivate

youth to achieve.

3. To improve race relation by dispelling myths

of racial inferiority.

4. To support and work with non-profit, charitable

organizations seeking to improve the social

and economic status of African Americans.

Each wax figure, is clad in appropriate historical attire, is part of a scenic display depicting the struggles, achievements and contribution of African Americans worldwide. Each display is presented chronologically, highlighting ancient Africa, the Middle Passage, the Antebellum and Postbellum periods, Reconstruction, the Harlem Renaissance, the Civil Rights era, and the present.