African-American Focus Tour

The very essence of Charleston's being has been shaped by its African-American community. From architecture and history to language and food, it is impossible to tell the story of Charleston without examining the influence of the region's Black residents. But rather than simply infusing bits of this story into another tour, this tour focuses exclusively on their contributions through the last 350 years - and ongoing today. Among other things, learn about the city's first Black police chief whose achievements drew attention nationally. Discover the city's first African-American hotelier whose luxury establishment was frequented by affluent White visitors in the early 1800s. Begin to appreciate the Black community's role in the visual and performing arts field, both today and throughout history. Also, you will develop an understanding of the the role of the Gullah people in the economic development of the area.

This tour covers a 1 mile area in one of the most historic areas of the city. We will begin on Broad Street and weave our way through many of the most iconic streets in the city. Along the way, we will stop at or walk by significant points of interest in the African-American story, including: - The corner where African-American women craft their beautiful baskets. - Cabbage Row where the famous operetta Porgy and Bess had its beginning. - Stoll's Alley where the beautiful ironwork of Philip Simmons is seen. - The Old Slave Mart Museum where the dark history of the African slave trade is chronicled. - Buildings where enslaved persons once lived. - The City Market where foods, crafts, and artwork are sold by local Gullah residents. - The Federal Courthouse, the site of one of the most important legal cases in the history of advancing racial equity. - The Battery, where you will learn about heroic Black figures who helped to bring the end of the Civil War. The city's Black history abounds on every street.