Discover the Artistry and Secret Language of Quilts from a Southern Illinois Visionary

Corene McDaniel | The Secret Language of Quilts: Mapping the Underground Railroad to Freedom

Trailblazers in work and service, artist Corene McDaniel and her husband Milton McDaniel co-founded the African American Museum of Southern Illinois with the purpose of identifying, preserving, and celebrating the achievements of African American culture in Southern Illinois.

We are honored to share these meaningful and important original works by Corene McDaniel at the Corridor Gallery in the Carbondale Civic Center.

Lives of Groundbreaking Achievements, Leadership, Creativity, and Service

Milton McDaniel’s historic firsts include becoming the first African American fireman and engineer for the railroads north of the Ohio River, as well as the first African American member of the sheet metal workers' union. He later established a successful heating and cooling business in Carbondale.

Corene McDaniel is a pioneering force in Southern Illinois. After a successful career as a salon owner, she went on to become the first African American woman to serve on the Carbondale City Council. Throughout her life, she has been a passionate advocate for preserving and passing on African American history and culture to younger generations.

Honoring Legacy, History, and Impact

This exhibition honors not only Corene’s artistic talents, but also the incredible lives of the McDaniels and their enduring impact on Southern Illinois.

 

Visit this exhibit at the Corridor Gallery located inside Carbondale Civic Center during regular business hours.

The Corridor Gallery is cooperatively managed by the City of Carbondale and Artspace Southern Illinois.