More than fifty years ago, Mell Pruitt, currently a retired school teacher in Bryan began to collect and search out information on African Americans in the Brazos Valley. The small gathering of articles and photographs grew into an extensive collection about the history of African Americans in the Brazos Valley and beyond. In 1999 the African American National Heritage Society (AANHS) was founded in an effort to raise funds for the future construction of a museum to house the collection.

The museum will chronicle the tragedies and triumphs of African American life from ancient civilizations to the present day. In addition, the museum will focus on local histories such as churches, families, and schools. The society is committed to maintaining the integrity of black art and artifacts. A significant objective of the museum is to portray, specifically to the younger generation, the strong foundation, struggles, and accomplishments of their ancestors. Portable displays, featuring several of the artifacts, have been taken to local schools and displayed in other public areas.

The museum open it doors on July 22, 2006. With continued determination and the support of the community the museum will stand as a place where people will learn about the past and about the potential for the future.

The Society is a 501(c) 3 organization and received its charter from the State of Texas, October 14, 1999. Current corporate officers of the Board of Directors include Mell Pruitt, Chair and CEO, Shirley Peyton, Vice Chair, Bill Page, Secretary, Effie Perry, Treasurer, Dr. Wendell Davis, Chair of Building Committee, and Willie Pruitt, Vice Chair of Building Committee. The mission of the society is to explore, develop, preserve, and present the cultural history and heritage of African Americans. With the support of many individuals and organizations, the society raised over $700,000 for its construction.