MBAD's African Bead Museum, Detroit

The fourth African bead museum to open in the United States, this repository for a wide variety of ceremonial beads, artwork and related objects opened in a former house on Detroit's near west side. Besides a huge collection of beads that carry a wide variety of cultural significance, the museum also has books on African culture and history. Ivory, silver, other carved objects and a gallery featuring paintings and sculpture by local African-American artists are also displayed here. It's a short ride from downtown and is a fascinating stop for African history buffs. Guided tours are available.

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