Daniel A. Moore Sr., a trailblazing figure in African American history, passed away on March 4 at the age of 88 in Decatur, Georgia. Moore was the visionary behind the creation of the APEX Museum in Atlanta, a pioneering initiative that aimed to showcase the rich and diverse history of African Americans.
Moore’s journey began in 1978 when he started collecting artifacts that would eventually form the foundation of the museum. In 1984, he moved the collection to a historic building on Auburn Avenue, a central location in African American history. The museum, named APEX (African American Panoramic Experience), aimed to provide a comprehensive view of the African American experience, from Africa to the civil rights movement and beyond.
Unlike other institutions at the time, Moore’s museum focused on highlighting the achievements and contributions of African Americans across various fields. The museum’s exhibits ranged from African culture to the struggles of slavery and the accomplishments of African Americans in the sciences.
Moore’s dedication to preserving and sharing African American history was fueled by a desire to ensure that future generations would have a true understanding of their heritage. He believed that it was essential for Black people to interpret their own history to avoid misrepresentation or omission by others.
Before embarking on his journey to establish the museum, Moore had a successful career as a filmmaker, creating documentaries on social issues and African American figures. His passion for film and storytelling played a significant role in shaping the narrative of the APEX Museum.
Moore’s legacy lives on through the APEX Museum, which continues to attract thousands of visitors each year. His son, Dan Moore Jr., reflects on his father’s impact, noting that Moore’s vision for the museum was ahead of its time and helped reshape the narrative of Black history.
Daniel A. Moore Sr.’s dedication to preserving and celebrating African American history has left a lasting impact on the community and serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and honoring the contributions of all individuals in shaping our shared history.
