Oral history interview with Marion Agnes Gill

Marion Agnes Gill discusses how she came to design the Anacostia Neighborhood Museum's (now Anacostia Community Museum) 1987 exhibit, Climbing Jacob's Ladder: The Rise of Black Churches in Eastern American Cities, 1740-1877, by coordinating photographs for the exhibit and catalog, and how this led to her eventually working for the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. She highlights the commitment and work of Zora Felton-Martin, whom she credits with positively impacting her career. She describes the museum's relationship with the Smithsonian Institution, and how social and political trends have affected the museum over time. She also describes the positive impact the museum has had on the neighborhood, by serving the local community, being inclusive, providing essential information to all, and displaying exhibits that are relevant to the residents. The interview was recorded on October 4, 1991. The audio quality is clear throughout the recording, with some background static. Exhibitions mentioned: The Rat: Man's Invited Affliction, Climbing Jacob's Ladder: the rise of Black churches in Eastern American cities, 1740 - 1877.