In 2014, the National Civil Rights Museum completed a significant expansion and renovation of the Lorraine Motel, adding over 16,000 square feet of meticulously crafted interpretive exhibits by 1220 Exhibits. This enhancement includes more than 260 artifacts and 1,000 graphics, ranging from light- jet prints to silkscreened panels, which together guide visitors through a comprehensive journey spanning five centuries of history. The exhibits trace the evolution of resistance from the era of slavery, through the Civil War and Reconstruction, the rise of Jim Crow, and the landmark events of the late 20th century that ignited global movements for civil and human rights.
The renovation introduced interactive elements and immersive environments, further deepening the museum’s portrayal of the ongoing struggle for equality. Among the highlights are a replica of the bus from the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott, the lunch counter from the 1960 Sit-Ins, and the garbage truck from the 1968 Memphis Sanitation Workers Strike—each serving as powerful symbols of the fight for justice. This expansion not only enriches the visitor experience but also ensures that the museum remains a vital and impactful space for learning and reflection on the enduring quest for civil rights.
