Written by Kylie Procita
February is Black History month, a time to commemorate and engage with African-American culture. Downtown Savannah is rich with historical monuments and museums dedicated to significant events and important figures pertaining to African-American history. You may already be aware that it is Black History month and celebrate by listening to more black artists such as Beyonce, Nina Simone or Ray Charles. However, there are countless opportunities right here in Savannah to learn about and appreciate black culture even more.
Here are some ways to get involved:
1. Visit The Savannah African Art Museum
The Savannah African Art Museum recently reopened Feb. 1 to kick off the Black Heritage Festival. Learn about the history of African art through a collection of over a thousand artifacts from 22 countries. The museum offers parking and is handicap accessible, making it a place for everyone to enjoy.
Located at 201 East 37th Street
Open Wednesday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Individual admission is free.
2. The First African Baptist Church
The First African Baptist Church, located in the Historic District in Savannah, is recognized as the nation’s oldest African Baptist Church. Completed in 1859, this National Historic Landmark provided a sanctuary to African-Americans during a time of slavery. Schedule a guided tour to learn more about the historical significance of this church.
Located at 23 Montgomery Street
Tours are Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday at 1 p.m.
Visit their website for rates and bookings.
3. African-American Art Gallery at the SCAD Museum of Art
If you are a SCAD student, faculty member, a resident or a visitor in Savannah, visit the SCAD Museum of Art to get a taste of African art history. The Walter O. Evans collection of African-American Art is a permanent collection within the museum featuring a rotation of artists.
Located at 601 Turner Boulevard
Open Tuesday-Sunday
Visit their website for detailed hours and rates.
4. Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum
Located a few blocks south of the Visitors Information center, the museum honors Dr. Ralph Mark Gilbert as the father of Savannah’s Civil Rights Movement and leader of the NAACP. The museum building holds historical significance itself, along with its contents.
Located at 460 MLK Boulevard
Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5. King-Tisdell Cottage and Negro Heritage Trail Tour
The King-Tisdell Cottage is a great opportunity to visit a location of historical importance if traditional museums aren’t your cup of tea. The King-Tisdell Cottage serves as the starting point for the Negro Heritage Trail Tour as well. The Negro Heritage Trail Tour gives bus tours of historic Savannah from a black perspective.
Located at 514 East Huntingdon Street
See website for detailed rates and hours.
Featured image credit: Nick Thomsen
