Butler hosts African American Museum for GHCC’s Chamber Connections
The Greater Hartsville Chamber of Commerce (GHCC) sponsored another successful “Chamber Connections” gathering to the Butler Heritage Foundation, 1103 South Sixth Street, on Tuesday, October 20. This time, the program belonged to the Darlington African American Museum, whose board members presented the story of a cultural institution now moving from vision to construction.
“Preserving Our Past. Empowering Our Future” — guided by that motto, the Darlington African American Museum is being built from the ground up as a permanent home for the stories, challenges, and triumphs of Black South Carolinians. It aims to preserve, celebrate, and share the heritage of African Americans in the Pee Dee region, serving as a trusted community partner, a cultural hub, and an educational center for local youth.
The project has gained considerable momentum. The South Carolina General Assembly earmarked $800,000 in seed funding, secured through the advocacy of Representative Robert Williams. The museum has acquired its future site at 131 Pearl Street in Darlington and completed full demolition of the previous structure. It is now entering the active building phase and preparing the foundation for construction.
A ten-member founding board of directors is establishing the organization’s governance, and the museum reports operating with zero debt.
Jannie Harriott, the museum’s inaugural Executive Director, offered a personal appeal, sharing her honor at being chosen for the role. She described the museum as a “living sanctuary for truth,” one that honors everything from the resilience of ancestors to the courage of Civil Rights pioneers.
Joining her was South Carolina Highway Patrol Commander Colonel Christopher N. Williamson, who also serves on the board. Together, they reminded guests that the museum’s scope will reach well beyond the city of Darlington. It will encompass the African American history of Hartsville, Lamar, Society Hill, parts of Florence, and surrounding communities that were once part of Darlington County.
Jabari Clyburn presented a video tracing the museum’s history, the planning behind it, and its fundraising efforts. He outlined a broad vision in which the museum will serve as a home for history, an economic and business driver, and an extension of the classroom. It will also support the local ecosystem, assist with workforce retention, and improve quality of life.
Clyburn noted that no non-government building has been constructed in this particular area of Darlington in 60 years, underscoring the project’s significance for the neighborhood.
Despite the progress, significant work remains. Harriott said that while the organization has received $800,000 through Rep. Williams, an additional $500,000 is needed to finish the building’s exterior. Approximately $500,000 will also be required to complete the roof and interior.
Harriott announced that the museum is looking for contributions – stories, photographs, letters, and other artifacts. In planning its inaugural exhibits, they welcome community insights and personal stories to help shape its narratives.
Supporters may donate online at their website: www.darlingtonaamuseum.org.
You can also give by phone or electronic device, please scan the QR Code included in the images here.