This past Monday, December 1st, the Museum of Durham History was proud to partner with the Booker T. Spicely Committee and the Durham County Library to present a panel discussion to honor Private First-Class Booker T. Spicely’s life and legacy. Family members, historians, and county commissioners came together to discuss the sacrifice made by Spicely and what it meant to see his story being recognized publicly. The auditorium was full of community members hoping to get a glimpse into this history and hear a deeper more personal side of the story from his family.

Not only did we have exceptionally strong attendance, but the event was even featured on ABC 11, as they showcase the exhibit Booker T. Spicely: Citizen, Soldier, Martyr, Hero, on display at the Museum of Durham History until January 2026. We are so honored to be able to share this important history with our community; we were very pleased to see so many familiar faces at the event and to know that this story is getting more and more attention. We are so grateful to all of you who came out to support the Museum, the Spicely Committee, and the Spicely family. 

We were thrilled to have Mike Wiley in the house that evening as well.  This past spring, Mike performed a one-man play, Changing Same, commissioned by the Booker T. Spicely Committee and co-written by Mike and Howard Craft, about the Booker Spicely murder.  Mike’s presence at the Spicely family panel was greatly appreciated.