Located in downtown Indianapolis, the Crispus Attucks Museum is a favorite spot for families and history buffs alike. The museum is directly associated with the Indianapolis Public School System (IPS). This popular sightseeing destination is one of the nation’s main sources of history. The museum is concerning the life and times of the infamous descendant of an African and Native American family, Crispus Attucks.
Heralded as the first American killed in the Boston Massacre ( on March 5, 1770), Crispus Attucks continues to be a shining example of patriotism and the colonial spirit.
Working Hours
The museum is open to the public for self-guided tours on Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM, and Saturdays from 12 PM to 5 PM. Student groups and other groups of up to 50 can learn more about this historic time in our country with guided tours that can be arranged on Saturdays.
In addition to historical sketches and photographs of Crispus Attucks, visitors can see memorabilia from the first all-Black high school in Indiana, founded in 1927, which is now named for Crispus Attucks.
As the first martyr of the American Revolution, the story of Crispus Attucks has reached legendary status. This man of African descent became an icon of anti-slavery activists of the early nineteenth century. He stood up and died as a hero, not only for his race but for the freedoms of all Americans against colonialism.
The Crispus Attucks Museum is not only a showcase of how this patriot was the first to warn of a military attack by the British. It is also a testimony of daily life for our colonial ancestors. At the Crispus Attucks Museum, you can view musical instruments from the time, unique sculptures, and pottery. Plus original documents, and many sketches and paintings of this first martyr of liberty among a backdrop of other famous African-Americans, including America’s first black president, Barack Obama.
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