Atlanta Entrepreneur Offers Soul Food In Metro Atlanta Museum
By: Monica Thorpe
Issue date: 2/14/08 Section: Student Life
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President and founder of the Soul Food Museum, Dr. Kenneth Willhoite, has always dreamed of sharing his findings with the metro Atlanta African American community.
"I was curious and I wanted to know what my purpose was on this earth. What I was [placed] here to do? What was my mission? What was my destiny? So I threw my hands up to God about 3 a.m. in the morning," Willhoite said. "[I asked] God and I begged and pleaded for him to answer my prayers and tell me what I was suppose to do."
His mission was later revealed to be a documenter of African American history. This job gave Willhoite the opportunity to witness changes in people's live throughout the city.
The success of this venture has allowed him to document hundreds of articles of African American history and inventions such as the icebox, which is now commonly called a freezer, and Nelly's controversial energy drink Pimp Juice. Pimp Juice gained notoriety from the secular community after it was assumed the brand would continue to perpetuate the use derogatory names.
Other documented products of the museum include an energy drink created by famed boxer Muhammad Ali, African American cookbooks, as well as products created by Atlanta residents, each derived with a story. Many of the products in the museum come from the Atlanta community as well as donations from historians and visitors alike.
"Information that most students would never know you can find out at the museum," Willhoite said.
After creating a local buzz, Willhoite noted students who visit the Soul Food Museum would never be the same. "It's a truly life changing experience. In this museum you will see [African American] history that will not be seen anywhere else," he said.
The Soul Food Museum is located 372 Auburn Ave. in the Historic King District.
Danielle V. Jackson contributed to this article.
