Taking place between February 1, 2009 - February 28, 2009 is Black History Heritage Month at the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial in St. Louis, a month-long event that is well worth checking out firsthand.

This fascinating and invigorating program features historical character portrayals, storytellers, concerts, films, reenactments, ranger and education programs, and so much more.

There is literally something different and exciting taking place almost every other day, and the basic format will be as follows:

The Adventures of Jim Beckwourth: African American Frontiersman, presented by Gregory Carr.

• Friday, February 1st -  9:30 AM & 11:00 AM
• Saturday, February 2nd - 10:30 AM & 1:00 PM

Elizabeth Keckley, portrayed by master storyteller and educator Carole Shelton.

• Friday, February 8th - 9:30 AM & 11:00 AM
• Saturday, February 9th - 10:30 AM & 1:00 PM

Company A - 10th Memorial Cavalry Buffalo Soldiers, presented by volunteer historic re-enactors from Fort Concho Historic Site and Museum in San Angelo, Texas.

• Thursday, February 14th & Friday, February 15th - 9:30 AM, 10:30 AM, & 11:30 AM
• Saturday, February 16th - 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM

Where Would We Be Without Thee, presented by local storyteller Loretta Washington.

• Friday, February 22nd - 9:30 AM & 11:00 AM
• Saturday, February 23rd - 10:30 AM & 1:00 PM 

Listening to the Small Voice: The Story of George Washington Carver, presented by actor and playwright Paxton Williams. 

• Friday, February 29th -  9:30 AM & 11:00 AM

This is just a preview of what is to come, so you will definitely want to make sure that you get down to the Historic Old Courthouse through the month of February.

African Americans have played central roles in some of the most historic and courageous moments in history, so why wouldn`t you want to celebrate it in the very best way, with  Black History Heritage Month?

If you would like more information on this event, you can call (314) 655 - 1700 and get all the details, or visit the Gateway Arch Riverfront website.