Celebrating Heritage and Community: The 25th Annual “Black Tie Affair”
Kickoff to Black History Month
As Black History Month approaches, the African American Heritage Society (AAHS) is gearing up for a significant celebration. On Saturday, February 7, the society will host its 25th Annual “Black Tie Affair” at the Embassy Suites in Franklin. This gala event, which begins at 6 p.m., serves as a vital fundraiser for several initiatives, including the McLemore House Museum and the newly acquired Merrill-Williams House. The latter is set to become a Heritage and Culture Center for the community.
A Tradition of Community Support
The Black Tie Affair has become a beloved tradition, regularly attracting a sellout crowd of approximately 725 to 750 guests. In previous years, the event has even expanded into a junior ballroom to accommodate the overwhelming support. This year’s response has been no different, with tickets selling out quickly. However, even though the event is fully booked, the AAHS continues to welcome donations, emphasizing the importance of community support in fulfilling its mission to chronicle and preserve African American heritage and history.
A Theme of Perseverance
This year, the gala theme—“25 Years of Perseverance, Preservation, and Promise”—reflects the journey of the AAHS over the past quarter-century. The theme captures the spirit of celebrating past achievements, honoring current contributions, and building a brighter future for the community.
An Evening of Music and Celebration
Guests will be treated to a musical performance by Julius Fisher and the Genius Band, ensuring a lively and enjoyable atmosphere throughout the evening. Music is often a cornerstone of such events, providing both entertainment and an uplifting connection to cultural heritage.
Recognizing Community Heroes
One of the highlights of the Black Tie Affair is the annual awards ceremony, where honorees in categories such as business, civic engagement, communication, education, and religion are recognized. These awards spotlight individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to Williamson County. While the names of this year’s honorees remain undisclosed until the night of the event, anticipation builds around who will be honored.
Honoring Pioneer Families
A special acknowledgment will be given to the Nathaniel Baugh family from the 11th district of Williamson County, which is set to be honored at the 2026 event. This unique distinction is awarded to families whose roots can be traced back to the 1850s, reinforcing the deep historical ties present in the community. This initiative, spearheaded by the Williamson County Public Library, has seen over 24 African American pioneer families recognized at prior Black Tie events thanks to the efforts of Thelma Battle.
Community Engagement Beyond the Gala
The public will have the opportunity to engage with the honored families during a reception at the Williamson County Public Library on February 8, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. This event fosters a sense of community and encourages conversations about heritage, history, and the contributions of African Americans in the region.
Supporting the Mission of AAHS
The AAHS emphasizes that donations are crucial to its continued work, allowing the organization to fulfill its mission effectively. Contributions to the AAHS are tax-deductible, and donations can easily be made online at aahswc.org or via checks mailed to the organization’s P.O. Box in Franklin.
Through events like the Black Tie Affair, the AAHS creates an impactful space for honoring and preserving African American history, making it an essential part of the community’s identity.