Honoring the Cultural Legacy of Charleston’s Black Community

Known as the Holy City, Charleston boasts a celebrated culinary scene and picturesque historic streets filled with Southern charm. Among the many elements that contribute to its allure, the significance of its African American citizens and their ancestors is vital. Instead of avoiding its history, the city openly embraces its past, acknowledging the contributions of African people and their ongoing influence today.

Opening this summer, the new International African American Museum, located at the former site of one of the largest slave trading ports in the nation, illuminates all aspects of Black life here—from the era of slave ships and the civil rights movement to the resilience of its community and the cultural treasures of today. There's so much to explore in Charleston—here's a visual guide to kickstart your journey.

Discover the Gullah Experience

The Gullah Geechee community, deeply rooted in their African heritage, resides along the Sea Islands of coastal South Carolina (and extends along the East Coast from North Carolina to Florida). Their profound impact on Lowcountry culture and cuisine remains evident today—experience it in local restaurants and discover it through artisan crafts around the city.

The tradition of hand-woven sweetgrass baskets is a craft that has been passed down through generations for over 300 years. You can find stunning examples at Charleston City Market, where more than 50 Gullah artisans showcase their work.

This renowned culinary hub bursts with flavors from Black chefs crafting dishes rooted in the Gullah tradition. Delight in Lowcountry favorites like shrimp and grits or Catfish Charleston at Gillie’s Seafood, led by chef Sean Mendes, who draws inspiration from his grandmother's Southern comfort cooking.

Another essential stop is Hannibal’s Soul Kitchen, a Charleston institution since 1985, serving dishes inspired by the Gullah Geechee culture, including okra soup and crab and shrimp rice.

A multitude of enriching historic sites to discover

Charleston is dotted with significant landmarks that reflect the Black experience. Begin your journey at the International African American Museum for an in-depth look at history; visit the Old Slave Mart Museum, the last slave auction site in South Carolina, established in 1859; and attend a service or simply explore Mother Emanuel AME Church, the oldest African Methodist Episcopal church in the Southern U.S., founded in 1817. For outdoor relaxation, an afternoon at Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is unbeatable.

The Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is celebrated as “America’s Most Beautiful Gardens” and stands as one of the South’s oldest plantations, proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is the first tourist destination in the Lowcountry and the oldest public gardens in the United States, having opened its gates to the public in 1870. Don’t forget to reserve the “From Slavery to Freedom: The Magnolia Cabin Project Tour” in advance for a deeper understanding of the enslaved individuals' contributions to the Lowcountry and this plantation.

Discover nine galleries and a genealogy center—where visitors can trace their family roots—spanning over 150,000 square feet at the International African American Museum. The museum aims to cultivate empathy and understanding, empowering guests with historical knowledge—a truly compelling mission statement.

Engage in cultural experiences

Make sure to explore sites and tours that deeply engage you in the contemporary Black Charleston experience. At the Philip Simmons Garden, homage is paid to the lyrical ironworks of the Master Blacksmith, whose apprentices carry on his legacy to this day. Join Gullah Tours, guided by Alphonso Brown—a native of Charleston's rural Rantowles community, fluent in Gullah and knowledgeable about its traditions—who will take you to intriguing locations like Catfish Row, the inspirational backdrop for Gershwin’s Porgy & Bess.

At the Mary Jackson Modern and Contemporary Gallery within the Gibbes Museum of Art, you'll discover artworks created over the last 40 years by local artists or those whose creations reflect the intricate narrative of the Lowcountry. Many pieces explore the enduring legacy of slavery in America and the Southern landscape.