The Kansas
African American Museum:

Bridging Wichita’s History and the Garnes Legacy

The Kansas African American Museum stands as a vital link between Wichita’s African American heritage and the Garnes family history. Housed in the historic Calvary Baptist Church, the museum is a testament to the enduring contributions of Wichita's African Americans community in shaping the city’s cultural and historical fabric. For the Garnes family, this museum is more than a landmark; it is part of their legacy, preserving a deep connection to their roots and the black community as a whole.

Calvary Baptist Church and Its Role in "The West Side"

Calvary Baptist Church was established in 1878 and rebuilt between 1917 and 1920, it is the oldest African American Baptist church in Wichita. The church was located in the Black community affectionately named and called by the community "The West Side," and Wichita's historically segregated area where many prominent African American families, leaders, businesses and institutions made their humble beginings. Many of these institutions went on to leave lasting legacies that continue to thrive in Wichita even today.The church, with its Classical Revival design, stood as a beacon of faith, hope, and resilience for generations. Several members of the Garnes family were devoted members of Calvary Baptist Church during the many decades after its construction and growth, further deepening the family's ties to this important institution.

The Garnes Family's Historical Ties

The Garnes family’s connection to to the historical Calvary Baptist Church reflects their integral role in the development of Wichita’s African American community. At the heart of the family of course is Sylvester Garnes, the patriarch whose legacy continues to inspire us all.

• John Garnes, Sylvester’s son, married Sabra Ann Monday-Garnes-Williams, a leader in the church’s operation and function in those very early years. Sabra’s dedication to the church spanned decades, as she remained a committed member until her passing in 1968.
• Their children, Willie Garnes and Carrie Ann Garnes-Johnson, both residiing in the Wichita area also left indelible marks. Willie was the father of Emma Jean Garnes-Washington, who was mother to the 2025 Garnes Family Reunion chairperson, JoAnn Washington-Rogers.
• Carrie Ann Garnes-Johnson, the only daughter of John and Sabra, was married to the late Leonard Johnson Sr., both devoted members of the historical Calvary Baptist Church. Carrie Ann’s contributions and steadfastness as a member further connect the Garnes family to the church’s rich history and legacy. These just to name a small few of the Garnes family members that attended as members of this landmark church.

From Church to Museum: Preserving History

When urban renewal projects threatened the survival of Calvary Baptist Church in the 1970s, efforts to preserve the structure led to its transformation into The Kansas African American Museum. Today, the museum highlights the achievements, art, and culture of African Americans in Kansas while also serving as a touchstone for families like the Garnes to celebrate their contributions to this shared history.

Highlights of TKAAM

• Artistic Excellence: Exhibits feature work by celebrated African American artists and artifacts reflecting African and African American heritage.
• Community Recognition: The museum honors the leaders, businesses, and institutions that emerged from "The West Side," celebrating their lasting influence on Wichita.

2025 Garnes Family Reunion

For the Garnes family, visiting TKAAM during the 2025 reunion is more than a history lesson—it is a homecoming. The museum provides a unique opportunity to honor the resilience of family members like Sabra Ann Monday-Garnes-Williams and Carrie Ann Garnes-Johnson while connecting with the enduring legacy of patriarch Sylvester Garnes. As part of the reunion experience, the museum serves as a bridge between the past and the future.