A new exhibit has just opened at the Arms Family Museum in Youngstown showcasing the city's African American community.

The exhibit, titled "Making An Impact: Highlighting Youngstown's African American Community" can be found on display on the museum's second floor. 

According to a press release, the 1850 U.S. Census shows that there were 90 free African Americans living in the Mahoning Valley with 37 of them living in Youngstown.

By 1890, 648 African Americans resided in Youngstown as the community flourished with the establishment of homes, churches and businesses, as well as the continued influx of migrants in search of freedom and economic opportunities from the Jim Crow South.

Nevertheless, African Americans still faced several challenges in Youngstown including racial segregation, the Ku Klux Klan and the depletion of neighborhoods from urban renewal.

This exhibit covers the stories of those challenges, as well as the strength, support and perseverance from the community during that time.

Additionally, throughout Black History Month, the Mahoning Valley Historical Society will be highlighting stories about the African American community in the Valley via its social media platforms.

You can check this exhibit out for yourself Tuesday through Sunday from noon until 4 p.m.