Black History Month

Black History Month celebrates the many achievements and contributions made by African Americans to our economic, cultural, spiritual, and political development. Every Saturday during the month of February, the town sponsors a series of free events that focus on the African American history and Gullah Geechee heritage of Mount Pleasant. The Town of Mount Pleasant Historical Commission celebrates its 9th annual Black History Month in February 2023!  The schedule for the 2023 Black History Month celebration is below. 

February 4th: Presentation about Edmund Jenkins and Panel Discussion with Members of the Mount Pleasant Police Department

2 pm at Darby Building, 302 Pitt Street

Sergeant Don Calabrese will give a presentation on the life of Edmund Jenkins, an African American veteran who became the Town's first town marshal. Following the presentation, Mount Pleasant police officers will discuss topics including the legacy of Edmund Jenkins, the benefits and challenges of being in law enforcement, and the meaning of Black History Month. 

February 11th: The Plantation Singers

7 pm at Christ Church, 2304 N HWY 17

The Plantations Singers, with director Lynnette White, will perform an A Capella performance of traditional Gullah Spirituals. The intermission will include a brief presentation on sweetgrass basket making. 

February 18th: The Shy Clown with Balloons

2 pm at Moultrie Middle School, 645 Coleman Boulevard

The Shy Clown, Jonathan Davis from Mullins, South Carolina, will perform as a clown with magic and balloons.  The show will bring laughter and smiles to children of all ages!

February 25th: Presentation by Faith Rivers James and Songs with Storytelling by Ann Caldwell

2 pm at Wando Library, 1400 Carolina Park Boulevard

Faith Rivers James, Executive Director of the Coastal Conservation League and Mount Pleasant native, will discuss her career and the connection between African American culture and the environment. Ann Caldwell, of the Magnolia Singers, will close the town's Black History Month celebration with songs and storytelling.

Check out the 2021 and 2022 Black History Month events available virtually below. 

Reconstruction Era Presentation

Michael Allen, Advisory Board chairman, Scott Teodorski, Park superintendent, and Beaufort retired mayor Billy Keyserling discuss the creation and significance of the Reconstruction Era National Historic Park with Val Littlefield as moderator.  https://youtu.be/V6aL5NTqqHs

Gullah Spirituals Concert

The Plantations Singers, with director Lynnette White, perform an A Capella performance of traditional Spirituals.  https://youtu.be/ZEsGvoH6nI4

History of Education for African Americans in Mount Pleasant 

Discuss the experience of education for African American educators and students during and after the time of integration.  https://youtu.be/Z1t7ppKlHkk

International African American Museum Presentation and Concert

Dr. Tonya Matthews, CEO, and Dr. Bernard Powers, Board of Directors, present the future International African American Museum honoring African American history and culture. Ann Caldwell, of the Magnolia Singers, closes the evening with a solo performance.  https://youtu.be/-e7a7-zKerg

All events are FREE and family-friendly. For more information, contact Kate Miller by calling 843-884-1229 or by email at planning@tompsc.com.

LINKS TO 2021 EVENTS BELOW

2/6/2021: Scanlonville: A History, The Land and The Community 

2/20/2021: The Laing Visitor: A Look at Some Hidden Black Histories of Mount Pleasant

2/27/2021: History of Black Fraternities and Sororities