Charles Blockson Obituary, Death – At the Temple Performing Arts Center on Tuesday afternoon, an homage to the late scholar, activist, and collector of African American Artifacts Charles L. Blockson took place. This gave those who had been moved by his work the opportunity to memorialize the recently departed scholar, activist, and collector of African American Artifacts. The collection of African American artifacts that Blockson was responsible for is considered to be among the most prominent in the country. Blockson passed away on June 14th.
Dr. Diane Turner, who is the curator of the Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection that is located on the Temple University campus, mentioned that there is a copy of the book “The Underground Railroad.” The collection includes a wide variety of historical objects, some of which belonged to the abolitionist William Still. Other items in the collection include photographs, artwork, literature, and other items that explain African and African American history. Blockson gave the things as a donation, and throughout his life, he made it his duty to record the history of African Americans, which was frequently left untold.
Turner, who first met Blockson when she worked as his graduate assistant many years ago, remarked that he was the first African American to be featured on the magazine’s cover. “Mr. Blockson was the first African American to get a cover story in the National Geographic.” She explained that the collection, which can be viewed by anyone and used for academic research, was created with the intention of “eradicating stereotypes and telling the truth.”
Before he passed away at the age of 89, Blockson was successful in accomplishing his goal. The news brought pain and memories to those who knew him, including Beverly Hill Lomax, who had been married to the late Dr. Walter Lomax Jr., a renowned Philadelphia philanthropist and physician. Beverly Hill Lomax’s husband had passed away. While they were both attending Penn State, he made the acquaintance of Blockson.
