Observing Black history in Aiken

As the end of Black History Month draws near, we are remembering Black history tied to Aiken County and the ways that Black students are represented in the present day.

Aiken County was founded with the help of several Black residents including Samuel J. Lee, Charles Hayne and Prince Rivers, who was a former slave. Rivers escaped from slavery and joined the Union Army. During Aiken’s founding in 1871, he helped pick the site for the courthouse and served as the state legislator until 1874.

Aiken’s Black history can be honored by paying a visit to The Center for African American History, Art and Culture (CAAHAC) at 120 York St NE. Open since 2018, this museum occupies the building that was previously a school for freed slave children, known as the Immanuel Institute. The elementary school also offered trade skill courses for those in their early 20s. It was constructed in 1889 by Presbyterian missionary Rev. W.R. Coles.

Now featuring several exhibits including a room made to imitate a slave ship, the CAAHAC is also the location of Aiken County’s annual Juneteenth celebration.

At USC Aiken, there are several ways to learn more about Black history and get involved. USCA’s Department of Diversity Initiatives is a place for students to connect with others and find or create a sense of belonging. Diversity Initiatives is a safe space for Black students and the department observes the different heritage months including Black History Month in February.

There are several student organizations at USCA that serve as an exclusive community for Black students on campus. Two of these are USCA’s Black Student Union, which advocates for the celebration of Black voices and education, and C.U.R.L.S (Confident, Unique, Regal, Leading Society) which is a group that helps to empower young men and women through bonding activities and teaching hair care tips.