Charleston’s Gullah Geechee Heritage Celebrated in New Cultural Center

Charleston’s Gullah Geechee Heritage Celebrated in New Cultural CenterCharleston’s Gullah Geechee Heritage Celebrated in New Cultural Center Charleston, South Carolina is home to a vibrant Gullah Geechee community, whose rich cultural heritage is now being celebrated in a new cultural center. The Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Center opened its doors on East Bay Street in the historic Ansonborough neighborhood. The center aims to preserve and promote the unique traditions, language, and history of the Gullah Geechee people. The Gullah Geechee are descendants of enslaved Africans who were brought to the coastal regions of South Carolina and Georgia. They developed a distinct culture that blended African and American elements, including their own unique language, known as Gullah. The cultural center showcases the history and culture of the Gullah Geechee through interactive exhibits, educational programs, and community events. Visitors can learn about the Gullah Geechee history of resilience, innovation, and cultural preservation. One of the highlights of the center is the Sweet Grass Basket Gallery. Sweet grass basket weaving is a traditional Gullah Geechee craft that has been passed down through generations. Visitors can watch skilled basketmakers create these beautiful and functional works of art. The center also features a museum store that sells Gullah Geechee-made crafts, books, and other cultural items. Proceeds from the store support the center’s educational and preservation programs. The opening of the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Center is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Gullah Geechee community. It is a place where the Gullah Geechee culture can be celebrated, shared, and preserved for future generations. “This center is a dream come true,” said Queen Quet, chieftess of the Gullah Geechee Nation. “It is a place where we can come together as a community and share our culture with the world.” The Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Center is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the rich history and vibrant culture of the Gullah Geechee people.