Green McAdoo Cultural Center - a tree lined sidewalk in front of a store
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Green McAdoo Cultural Center

4.8
·147 reviews·Clinton, United States

Discover the inspiring story of the Clinton 12, who bravely integrated Clinton High School in 1956, making history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more reflection time.

CrowdLow
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Green McAdoo Cultural Center - a tree lined sidewalk in front of a store

Green McAdoo Cultural Center

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more reflection time.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the inspiring story of the Clinton 12, who bravely integrated Clinton High School in 1956, making history. TikTokInstagram

4.8
(147 reviews)

"A hidden gem! Super peaceful and inviting, offering a powerful look at Civil Rights history. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Admission & Donations

Entry is free, but donations are welcomed to support the center's mission. :heart:

Allow ample time

Plan for at least an hour to fully absorb the exhibits and documentaries. :clock:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Clinton 12 Story

The Clinton 12 Story

Learn about the courage of 12 Black students who integrated Clinton High School in 1956.

TikTokInstagram
Interactive Museum Exhibits

Interactive Museum Exhibits

Engage with displays and videos detailing this crucial chapter of Civil Rights history.

Reddit
Documentary Films

Documentary Films

Watch compelling films that offer local and national perspectives on the desegregation events.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Understand the Clinton 12's Legacy

The Green McAdoo Cultural Center honors the brave Clinton 12, the first students to integrate a Southern high school in 1956. Prepare for an emotional and educational experience that sheds light on a pivotal moment in Civil Rights history. TikTokInstagram

Plan Your Visit Duration

Most visitors spend about an hour exploring the museum and watching the documentaries. Allow extra time if you're attending a special event or concert. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more reflection time.
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Live music and community gatherings.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Fellows had an opportunity to visit the Green McADO which is a “museum that tells the compelling story of 12 high school students, who in 1956, braved threats of violence to attend Clinton High School, making it the first desegregated public high school in the South.” Patrick from Lesotho 🇱🇸 had a chat with Inimbom of Nigeria 🇳🇬 and Wa Thuto of Botswana 🇧🇼 on what they expect to take home from th...
@mwf.utk.fellows
71 likes • 1.1K views

Free Admission & Donations

Entry is free, but donations are welcomed to support the center's mission. :heart:

Allow ample time

Plan for at least an hour to fully absorb the exhibits and documentaries. :clock:

The origins of the Green McAdoo Center #blackhistorymonth #blackhistory #greenmcadoo #easttennessee
@wbir
9 likes • 342 views
This morning, the Green McAdoo Cultural Center was selected as a recipient of @easttennpbs', "Be More Awards." We are so excited to recieve the recognition and we look forward to continue to make an impact in our community.
greenmcadooculturalcenter
39 likes • 903 views

Check for events

The center hosts concerts and community events; check their schedule! :musical_note:

GPS can be tricky

GPS might lead to front or back parking; be patient. :car:

We visited the Green McADOO Cultural Center which is a “museum that tells the compelling story of 12 high school students, who in 1956, braved threats of violence to attend Clinton High School, making it the first desegregated public high school in the South.” #MWFLesotho2025 #MWF2025
patrick_motsoene
13 likes • 168 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Admission & Donations

Entry is free, but donations are welcomed to support the center's mission. :heart:

Allow ample time

Plan for at least an hour to fully absorb the exhibits and documentaries. :clock:

Check for events

The center hosts concerts and community events; check their schedule! :musical_note:

GPS can be tricky

GPS might lead to front or back parking; be patient. :car:

Emotional experience

Be prepared for a moving and informative journey through history. :sob:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(147 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Green McAdoo Cultural Center as a hidden gem, offering a deeply moving and informative experience about the pivotal desegregation of Clinton High School by the Clinton 12. The free admission and well-maintained exhibits are highlighted, though some note minor accessibility considerations. It's a powerful place to learn about a crucial part of Civil Rights history.

"[Visit: March 27, 2024]

A hidden gem! Would not believe there is a cultural center at this location. Super peaceful and inviting (almost did not think it was open).

Upon entering, visitors may be shocked at how spacious the interior of the center is. The classroom is first with a greeting from the administrator and a short video to follow. From there, visitors enter into a museum setting and learn the historical background of Clinton, TN, and the role the town played in desegregation. There is a longer video at the end of the walk through that highlights both the local and national coverage of the time. About an hour long, good reference material.

The building is very well maintained. Free admission as stated on both the website and printed pamphlet. Donations were accepted and welcomed. Free parking onsite. It can be a little tricky, depending on which GPS service is being used, but GPS will lead to either front or back parking."

None Last

"We took our Four Generation Field Trip here and we all loved it. Informative, quick and interactive! It was perfect for my mom, the great grandmother and my autistic teen granddaughter. A ramp into the building was the only thing missing. So great!!"

R

"The Green McAdoo Cultural Center is a small museum that accurately depicts the story of the Clinton 12. It was an emotional experience and a great opportunity for me to learn more about the black american culture and the culture of TN during that time period."

Ruby Bridges

What People Like

Powerful historical narrative
Informative exhibits
Free admission

What People Dislike

Minor accessibility issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Green McAdoo Cultural Center is located in Clinton, TN. While GPS services can sometimes be a bit tricky, they will generally lead you to either the front or back parking areas. Reddit It's a worthwhile destination for those interested in Civil Rights history in East Tennessee. TikTok

Yes, there is free parking available onsite at the Green McAdoo Cultural Center. Reddit

While the center is well-maintained, one visitor noted that a ramp into the building was the only thing missing, suggesting it might be a consideration for those with significant mobility challenges. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Green McAdoo Cultural Center is free. Donations are gratefully accepted and welcomed to support the center's operations and preservation efforts. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, and it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Some visitors have noted it can feel peaceful and inviting, almost making them question if it was open. Reddit

Generally, you can visit the Green McAdoo Cultural Center without a reservation, as it functions as a museum. However, for special events or group tours, it's advisable to inquire in advance. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors find that an hour is sufficient for a self-guided tour, including watching the documentaries. Reddit This allows ample time to absorb the historical context and emotional impact of the Clinton 12's story. TikTok

You can expect to see exhibits detailing the history of Clinton, TN, and its pivotal role in school desegregation, focusing on the brave Clinton 12. Reddit The center features a museum setting with informative displays and documentaries. TikTok

Yes, the center is informative and can be suitable for children, with one visitor mentioning it was perfect for their autistic teen granddaughter. Reddit It offers a valuable educational opportunity about Civil Rights history. Instagram

The museum offers an interactive experience through its displays and documentaries, allowing visitors to learn about the historical events in an engaging way. Reddit

The Clinton 12 were the first group of African American students to integrate Clinton High School in 1956, a landmark event in the Civil Rights Movement that faced significant opposition. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

While specific policies may vary, generally, photography for personal use is often permitted in museums. However, it's always a good idea to check for any posted signs or ask staff if you're unsure, especially regarding flash photography. Instagram

The center itself and its exhibits offer opportunities to capture the essence of the historical narrative. Instagram Additionally, the Clinton 12 statue set, though with a challenging viewing angle for faces, is a notable landmark. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Green McAdoo Cultural Center offers an educational and impactful experience for families. It's a place where children can learn about a significant chapter in American history in an engaging way. Instagram The museum's displays and documentaries are designed to be informative, and one visitor found it to be a perfect fit for their autistic teen granddaughter, highlighting its ability to cater to diverse needs. Reddit While the subject matter can be emotional, it provides a valuable opportunity for intergenerational learning and discussion about courage and equality. Instagram

📚 History Enthusiasts

For those passionate about Civil Rights history, the Green McAdoo Cultural Center is a must-visit. It offers a deep dive into the story of the Clinton 12, a crucial event that predates many other well-known desegregation efforts. TikTokInstagram The center provides detailed historical background, personal accounts, and extensive documentary footage, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and triumphs of the era. Reddit Many visitors leave with a desire to learn more, impressed by the depth of information presented. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Story of the Clinton 12

The Green McAdoo Cultural Center stands as a testament to the courage of the Clinton 12. In 1956, these twelve African American students bravely integrated Clinton High School, making it the first public high school in the South to do so. TikTokInstagram Their decision was met with intense resistance, including protests, threats, and even bombings, highlighting the deep-seated racial tensions of the era. The center meticulously chronicles their journey, showcasing the challenges they faced and their unwavering determination. TikTok

Visitors can expect to immerse themselves in this pivotal moment of the Civil Rights Movement through a series of exhibits and documentaries. Reddit The museum provides a comprehensive overview of the historical context, the students' personal experiences, and the national attention the events garnered. It's an opportunity to understand the sacrifices made and the profound impact this act of bravery had on the broader struggle for equality. Instagram

Visiting the Green McAdoo Cultural Center

The Green McAdoo Cultural Center is described as a hidden gem, offering a peaceful and inviting atmosphere upon entry. Reddit The interior is surprisingly spacious, beginning with a classroom setting where visitors are greeted and shown a short introductory video. Reddit From there, the journey continues into the museum, which is well-maintained and provides a thorough historical background of Clinton's role in desegregation. Reddit

Visitors can expect a self-guided tour that typically lasts about an hour, culminating in a longer documentary that features both local and national coverage of the events. Reddit The center is committed to accessibility, with free admission and onsite parking. Reddit While the experience is deeply moving and informative, some visitors have noted that a ramp into the building would enhance accessibility for all. Reddit The center also occasionally hosts community events, such as free concerts, adding another layer to its role as a cultural hub. Instagram

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