Great Day! We’re Preparing for The Gullah/Geechee Black History Market on February 5, 2022, at Ripple in The Cigar Factory building. This building, c. 1881, is located at 701 East Bay Street, in Charleston,

South Carolina, and is on the National Historic Register. In 1882, this structure opened as the Cotton Mill of Charleston, a place rich in Gullah/Geechee history.

On February 5, we will host a walk through art & vendor market to celebrate the ancestors and share their stories in an effort to honor the workers and laborers who built what is known today as The Cigar Factory. As we recognize Black History Month, we will honor the life of Lucille Simmons, and the countless other laborers who built this structure.

Lucille Simmons transformed the “I” to “We” in the song “I Will Overcome”, by composer Charles Albert Tindley, as they went on strike & picketed for fair wages & fair treatment at the Cigar Factory during 1945-1946 and the journey began. To this day this song stands as a definitive artistic, revolutionary expression of the oneness of mankind.

Indoor/outdoor Edutainment & Vendors Market for all ages.

Authentic Gullah/Geechee curious and artifacts, hand-crafted goods, a diverse collection of cultural art & apparel. Taste traditional Gullah/Geechee cuisine, Herbal Tea from Da’Gullah Garden,

Gullah/Geechee Tea & Juice Bar, music, Gullah/Geechee presentations, vendors, exhibits.

Walkthrough Time: 2 PM-7 PM

Admission: Free (Donation appreciated)

Donations benefit local community non profit Destiny Community Cafe &

Gullah Geechee Angel Network.

Special Guest: Savannah J of Star 99.7

Sponsored by: Ripple

Door Prizes from local businesses

Tickets: Free (Donation Appreciated) Eventbrite

May the ancestors be pleased.

Here are a few of the vendors & presenters:

Elder Carlie Towne Presentation author, poetry Gullah/Geechee traditional cultural t-shirt and aprons etc.

Ragina Scott Saunders, Da’ Gullah/Geechee Garden exhibit, cooking demo, tasting.

Anastatia Ketchen aka Lady SheRo,

Gullah/Geecheefied Artist

The Rev. Dr. Arlecia "Dr. Lecia" Simmons is an ordained minister, educator, and content creator who inspires and facilitates joyful moments through digital content and storytelling. Dr. Lecia is a

Gullah Geechee ambassador who educates about her Lowcountry heritage.

Andrea White bags etc.

Ariel Moore, Seren's Buttons & Things our youngest entrepreneur.

Lance Starr band

Martine Dorleans

Constance Davis, reading Da’Gullah Bible

Quadre' Stuckey, art exhibit

Gullah Parties by Barbara

Photobooth

And more…

All are welcomed!

We'll have all you need for a great day in Charleston!

Enjoy the sights and flavors of Gullah Geechee Cuisine at Historic Market, celebrating favorite with locals, tourists, & the next generation. Explore over 12 locally owned businesses that provide a unique marketplace experience.

Join us!

For more information please contact us at:
Elder Carlie Towne (843) 735-2189
Ragina Scott Saunders (843) 442-4234

Black History Charleston

The Gullah/Geechee Black History Market

Team Members