For more than a century, Americans have celebrated Black History Month during February to honor, educate and experience the legacy of Black culture and activism. And this month is a prime time to experience the Midlands’s rich legacy of African American excellence. Keep reading for a roundup of 11 events to check out this month:
Historic Columbia Journey to Freedom
When: Wednesdays – Saturdays at 1:30 p.m., Sunday at 3 p.m.
Where: Tours start at the Gift Shop at the Robert Mills house, 1616 Blanding St.
Price: $15 for non-member adults
Modjeska Simkins, a leader of the NAACP in Columbia, who worked closely with John McCray to advance a civil rights agenda in South Carolina. South Caroliniana Library/Provided
Throughout the entire month, Historic Columbia will be hosting their “Journey To Freedom” tour. “Journey To Freedom” guides its guests through two houses, each more than a century old. One housed a local Black entrepreneurial family and another belonged to human rights advocate Modjeska Simkins during the late-1800s. Bookings are available for Wednesday through Saturday. Visit historiccolumbia.org for more information.
Richland County Library Hands on Art: Black History Month Crafts
When: Feb. 4, 17, 25 at 10:30 a.m.
Where: St. Andrews, Wheatley and Blythewood branches
Price: free
The Richland County Library is offering a way for your kids to get their hands on a piece of history. Your local library may be hosting one of the events that offers fun for the whole family. Note: the library advises you to dress for a mess. Find out more at richlandlibrary.com
Richland County Library Black History Storytime
When: Feb. 1, 6, 8, 12, 13, 15, 20, 21, 22, 27
Where: Ballentine, Blythewood, Cooper, Edgewood, Lower Richland, Main, Northeast, Sandhills and Southeast branches
