Founder Of African American Museum Of Bucks Co. Dies

MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP, PA — The founder and executive director of the African American Museum of Bucks County has passed away, one month before the opening of the museum's permanent home.

Linda Salley is being mourned by friends and officials for her efforts in transforming the historic Boone Farm property into a county museum.

"So saddened by the loss of this dear friend," said Particia Mervine, who has served as the museum's capital campaign chairwoman and wrote a book about Boone Farm. "Linda was a woman of extraordinary vision and determination, and I was blessed to have known her."

The new African American Museum of Bucks County is just one month away from its grand opening at its permanent home at the 1716 farmhouse in Langhorne.

Mervine said that transforming the colonial-era farmhouse has been a $6 million undertaking.

The Board of the African American Museum of Bucks County announced Salley's passing on Wednesday night.

State Sen. Frank Farry offered his condolences.

"I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Linda Salley," Farry said. "It was such a pleasure working with Linda over the years as she poured her heart into bringing the museum's traveling exhibit to a permanent home here in Middletown Township. Her passion, vision, and dedication will leave a lasting impact for generations to come. My thoughts are with Linda's family, friends, and all who knew and loved her. Her memory and legacy will live on through the museum, which is set to open next month."

For over 14 years, the retired educator devoted her energy and passion toward the creation of a museum that would educate adults and children about untold stories and forgotten figures of the African American journey in the region.

"With unfailing faith and determination, Linda led the AAMBC from a pop-up museum that traveled the county to the development of a permanent home at Boone Farm, a colonial-era property located in Core Creek Park," museum officials said.

The new museum, Salley's lasting legacy, is expected to open to the public in late June.

"The AAMBC Board extends heartfelt sympathy to Linda’s family and countless friends who loved her dearly. The Board also fondly remembers Linda’s husband, Alonzo, who passed away in September 2025," museum officials said.

Museum officials said details of a viewing and service will be announced shortly.

The Salley family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations in her memory be made to the African American Museum of Bucks County Building Fund.