ABOUT US
Darlington African American Museum
For centuries, the stories of Black South Carolinians have served as the silent bedrock of our state’s progress—from the skilled labor that built our early economy to the intellectual and spiritual leadership that sparked national change. Today, those contributions are finding a permanent home. Fueled by the dedicated leadership of Representative Robert Williams and a historic investment from the South Carolina General Assembly, the Darlington African American Museum is rising as a living sanctuary for the "unvarnished truth" of our shared history. Located in the heart of the Pee Dee, this museum will celebrate the resilience of the Gullah Geechee heritage, the courage of Civil Rights pioneers, and the everyday innovation of our farmers, educators, and artisans. We are currently moving from legislative support to architectural reality, and we invite you to join us in this foundational phase. Your support is critical as we develop our inaugural collections and digital archives, ensuring that our ancestors' legacies are no longer mere footnotes, but the leading chapter of a landmark that will inspire generations to come.
the mission
Preserve, Document, and Celebrate
The mission of the Darlington African American Museum is to preserve, document, and celebrate the profound history and enduring contributions of African Americans in South Carolina. Through authentic storytelling and community engagement, we illuminate the journeys of Black South Carolinians who shaped the foundations and progress of our state and nation.
the VISION
A beacon that inspires.
The mission of the Darlington African American Museum is to preserve, document, and celebrate the profound history and enduring contributions of African Americans in South Carolina. Through authentic storytelling and community engagement, we illuminate the journeys of Black South Carolinians who shaped the foundations and progress of our state and nation.
CORE VALUES
Authenticity, Resilience, Legacy, Community
Authenticity
Committing to the "unvarnished truth" of history—from the struggles of the Middle Passage to the triumphs of the Civil Rights movement.
Resilience
Honoring the spirit of ancestors who built and maintained the fabric of this country through perseverance and innovation.
Legacy
Protecting the oral histories, artifacts, and local narratives of the Pee Dee region and beyond for future generations.
Community
Serving as a gathering place for dialogue, education, and the celebration of Black South Carolinian culture.