Here at The Henry Ford, we celebrate Black History Month in many different ways – through dramatic presentations, musical performances and exploration of the artifacts throughout Henry Ford Museum that help tell the journeys of African Americans throughout history.

And the food. You simply cannot forget the food.

During the month of February, we’re doing something new with our Celebrate Black History! programming – every Saturday and Sunday at 2pm and 3pm, just outside of our Fully Furnished exhibit in Henry Ford Museum, you’ll be able to see historic presenters from the Maddox House in Greenfield Village cook up several Southern favorites: Hoppin’ John, smothered pork chops – and even a special sweet potato candy, as part of our ongoing tribute to George Washington Carver.

Then, head on over to Michigan Cafe to get a taste of these and other delicious dishes offered only in February. Feeling especially inspired? Try out one of the recipes at home – like our black-eyed peas with ham hocks, included below – and let us know how it turns out!

What other Southern dishes are your favorites? How else do you celebrate Black History Month?

Black-eyed peas with ham hocks (as served at Michigan Café)

Makes approximately two gallons

2 cans black-eyed peas, rinsed

2 lbs. ham hocks

1 Spanish onion

3 slices bacon

1 gallon chicken stock

1/8 c. minced garlic

1 tsp. black pepper

1 ½ tsp. kosher salt

1. Combine all ingredients and simmer for 35 minutes.

2. Remove ham hocks. Peel and remove meat from the bones and cut meat into a medium dice.

3. Add diced meat back to the bean mixture and simmer for another 30 minutes.