For Educators
Our Approach
Any course on Oregon history that overlooks the contributions of Black Oregonians is incomplete. We work with teachers to create lesson plans and learning materials which tell a more inclusive story, and which celebrate our state’s diverse cultural heritage. All materials are aligned with state social studies and ethnic studies standards.
Download any or all of our lesson plans for free!
Lesson Plans
Black Pioneers on the Oregon Trail
A collaboration between Oregon Black Pioneers and Lauren Kristensen, The Arbor School of Arts and Sciences.
Featured in the lesson: Amanda Gardner Johnson, Ben Johnson, George Washington Bush, Jacob Vanderpool, Robin and Polly Holmes, Abner Hunt Francis.
The Letitia Carson Story
Written by Sarah MacPherson, Sacramento Elementary, with Zachary Stocks, Oregon Black Pioneers and Dr. Bob Zybach, Oregon Websites & Watersheds Project, Inc.
Featured in the lesson: Letitia Carson, Martha Jane Carson
Black Explorers in Oregon
A collaboration between Oregon Black Pioneers and Dean Wright, Judson Middle School.
Featured in the lesson: Markus Lopeus, York, Moses Harris
Oregon’s Black Exclusion Era
A collaboration between Oregon Black Pioneers and Dean Wright, Judson Middle School.
Racing to Change: Oregon’s Civil Rights Years
Written by Emilie Krutzik, Oregon Historical Society, with Zachary Stocks, Oregon Black Pioneers.
Featured in the lesson: Bill McCoy, Charles Jordan, Mercedes Deiz
Oregon’s Black History
A collaboration between Oregon Black Pioneers and Lynsey Turner, North Salem High School.
Featured in the lesson: Rachel Belden Brooks, Morris Thomas, Alonzo Tucker, Lizzie Weeks, George Hardin, George Fletcher, Beatrice Cannady, George Riley, and more.
Racing to Change: Oregon’s Civil Rights Years
Written by Emilie Krutzik, Oregon Historical Society with Zachary Stocks, Oregon Black Pioneers.
Featured in the lesson: Otto Rutherford, Bill McCoy, Charles Jordan, Mercedes Deiz
Black History Traveling Trunk
Looking for something hands-on? Reserve our traveling trunk! “Oregon’s Black Pioneers” was developed by Oregon Historical Society with Oregon Black Pioneers.
Bring History to Life
Looking for a fun way to interact with Oregon’s Black History? Download our activity pages!
Keep Learning
Visit our Learn & Explore page to find other great resources for learners of all ages.