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VALDOSTA — Actor Ossie Davis delivered the eulogy at the funeral of Malcolm X on Feb. 27, 1965. It was a strong statement of support for the life of a man whom controversy followed until his assassination at the age of 39. So why did Davis potentially risk his career to pay tribute to Malcolm X? A letter, written by Davis, explains his decision. The letter will be on public display this weekend.

Davis’ letter will join dozens of other historic artifacts for a special Black History Month observation, sponsored by the 100 Black Men of Valdosta Inc. The Sixth Annual African-American Artifacts exhibit will be on display noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 25 and 26.

Roy Copeland, president of the Valdosta chapter of the 100 Black Men, said, “It’s important for the community to see authenticated examples of black history.”

The artifacts, on loan from a private collection, include items from sports greats Althea Gibson, Jesse Owens and Jackie Robinson.

Copeland said a check from tennis great Gibson paying a fine in New Jersey will be displayed, along with a baseball card and a book signed by Robinson. In addition, a speech to be given by track star and Olympic athlete Owens is advertised in a broadside, or handbill.

In addition, Copeland said there are items from Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X and Frederick Douglass, and much more.

“Every artifact has been authenticated and every artifact shares a piece of black history,” he said.

The exhibit will be held at 102 E. Adair St., at the “1894 House,” and is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted with all proceeds going to the building fund for the 100 Black Men’s new offices in a house undergoing extensive renovation on MLK Drive in Valdosta.