100 Black Men of Charleston Records, 1995 - 2008 [AMN 1085]

100 Black Men of Charleston, Inc., established in 1996, is a local chapter of 100 Black Men of America, a national organization that dedicates time and financial assistance to programs and facilities that assist youth in communities of particular need. Many programs implemented by the organization involve mentoring and education.

The collection consists of materials relating to the establishment, operation, and development of 100 Black Men of Charleston, Inc. Administrative records include correspondence, meeting minutes, membership rosters and photographs, and materials relating to the acquisition and upkeep of facilities. Financial documents such as budgets, income and expense reports, and receipts comprise a significant portion of the collection. Also included are materials documenting the planning and implementation of various programs and fundraisers. Materials related to the national 100 Black Men organization consist of programs, conferences, events, and publications.

African American Firemen in Charleston [AMN 9010v]

African American firemen have served in the Charleston Fire Department since 1882.

The collection includes photocopied photographs of uniformed firemen and clippings from News and Courier about black fire fighters in the Charleston Fire Department. In a 1956 article, the News and Courier reported that black firemen received "the same privileges in pay, sick leave, and other benefits" as did white firemen; however, fire stations remained segregated.

Winfred Kent Alston Collection, circa 1930-1987

Winfred Kent Alston served as principal of Robert Smalls High School in Beaufort, SC from 1937 to 1962. Through his work with the school and community he founded the first African American Boy Scout Troop and high school band in Beaufort County. Contains programs from activities at South Carolina State and in Beaufort, articles, photographs, and a 1962 copy of the Robert Smalls High School newspaper, The General. Also contains a book about his life written by his wife, Mayme Eady Alston.

Avery Normal Institute Records, 1862 - 1978 [AMN 1012]

The Avery Normal Institute was established by the American Missionary Association (AMA) in Charleston, South Carolina in 1865. The Institute originally served as a school for former slaves and free persons of color, providing normal (or, teacher) training to students pursuing careers in education. The school eventually became known just as Avery Institute, operating as a high school with financial support from the AMA until 1947, when it became part of Charleston's segregated public school system. The school closed in 1954.

The Avery Normal Institute Papers, 1862-1954 and 1978, consist of photocopied materials regarding Avery Normal Institute generated by the American Missionary Association office and housed by the Amistad Research Center. The materials are separated into six small series: Annual Reports, 1862-1945; Administrative Correspondence, 1931-1954; Financial Records, 1943-1946; Employee Files, 1926-1945; Writings and Publications, 1882-1952; and Miscellaneous Files, 1878-1978. 1.) Annual Reports consist of sections of AMA Annual Report publications highlighting Avery. 2.) Administrative Correspondence consists of miscellaneous correspondence exchanged between the AMA and Avery officials. 3.) Financial Records consist of reports regarding the financial status of the school compiled by Avery officials and submitted to the AMA. 4.) Employee Files consist of employment information on members of the Avery faculty. 5.) The Writings and Publications series contains issues of the school newspaper, the Avery Tiger; reports on Avery's history and other materials; and a master's thesis by Avery staff member Alphonso H. Hoursey on Avery graduates. 6.) Miscellaneous Files include various programs, flyers, and newspaper clippings. Throughout the collection, the following individuals are frequently mentioned: AMA officials Ruth Morton and Fred Brownlee and Avery principals Frank DeCosta, Samuel Washington, and John Potts.

Auld Audio Collection, 1986-1993

Ms. Bobbie Nuite Auld grew up in Georgia and attended Furman University. Her interest in preserving the tradition of African American spirituals and gospel music led her to develop this collection. Ms. Auld, retired from the Medical University of South Carolina, resides in Hendersonville, NC. Contains programs from concerts and church services along with fifty-one audiotapes of musical performances, oral history interviews, conversations spoken in or about the Gullah language, and programs held at the Rural Mission on Johns Island, SC.

Avery Institute of Afro-American History & Culture Papers, circa 1978-2000

The Avery Institute of Afro-American History and Culture was founded in 1978 by a group of Avery alumnae and other interested persons in the Charleston area. Its mission was to rescue the old Avery School buildings and to develop an archives and museum for preserving African- American history and culture of the Lowcountry. Working with the College of Charleston, the property on Bull Street was acquired and, in 1985, the Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture was established as a part of the College. The restored Avery building was opened in 1990 as an archives and museum. The Avery Institute continues its commitment to the community through programming, publishing The Bulletin, and providing support for the Avery Research Center.

Contains program and membership documents along with minutes, correspondence, and other Institute records.

Avery School Memorabilia Collection, circa 1865-1955

The Avery School Memorabilia Collection contains documents that pertain to the activities at the Avery Normal Institute. These items include programs from musical and dramatic performances given by the students, commencements, invitations, dance cards, and other memorabilia from extra-curricula activities. Also includes some copies of the Avery yearbook and student newspaper.

Avery Photograph Collection, circa 1890s - 2008 [AMN 1112]

The collection includes photographs, negatives, contact sheets, photocopies, and other materials related to African American history from slavery to the Civil Rights Movement to the present, with an emphasis on Charleston and the Lowcountry region of South Carolina. Charleston's prominent African American families are represented, especially alumni of the Avery Normal Institute, as well as lifeways in rural areas and the Sea Islands. Images show the area's physical structures, associated people, and activities of African American churches, businesses, schools, civic and social organizations, burial societies, and professional associations. The work of Charleston-area photographers and photography studios is represented. Major events featured include W. E. B. Du Bois' visit to Charleston in 1917, the Hospital Workers' Strike of 1969, and public programs and educational events sponsored by the Avery Research Center.

Bell Family Papers, circa 1926-1972 [AMN 1001]

The African American Bell family of Charleston, South Carolina were descended from Sally (Sarah) Johnson, the matriarch of a free family of color who purchased 2 Green Street, in circa 1844. In 1912, the property was willed to Hiram L. Bell (died 1952), a son of Jesse Miles DeReef and Holten L. Bell.

These papers document properties owned by the family, especially the historic home at 2 Green Street, Charleston, sold to the College of Charleston in 1971. With materials on the history of the Bell, DeReef, and Purvis families; health of Hiram Bell, Sr. and references to Friendly Union Cemetery. Printed materials and certificates from Morris Brown A.M.E. church, Avery Normal Institute, Shaw School and Hampton College; with various printed materials documenting the Bricklayers, Masons and Plasterer's Union, of Charleston and elsewhere. The collection also contains awards and certificates of Hiram Bell, Jr. and James Bell. It also includes a program for the 50th anniversary of Charleston Bricklayers, Masons, and Plasterers, Local Chapter.

Isaiah Bennett Papers, 1932 - 2002 [AMN 1056]

Isaiah Bennett (1926-2002) served as a union representative for tobacco workers at the American Tobacco Company's "Cigar Factory" and as a leader and negotiator of the Charleston Hospital Workers' Strike of 1969. Bennett also founded and was president of the Charleston chapter of the A. Phillip Randolph Institute, an umbrella organization for black trade unions.

This collection contains five small series that pertain to the life and career of Isaiah Bennett. 1.) The biographical series includes a album relating to Bennett's campaign for Charleston County Council in 1980; an obituary and funeral program; and the finding aid for the collection he donated to the Georgia State University archives pertaining to his involvement with the local 1199 Union. 2.) The second series consists of primary and secondary source material on the Charleston Hospital Workers' Strike of 1969 and includes correspondence between Bennett and other leaders of the strike, memorabilia, photographs, and news clippings. 3.) The third series contains original items donated to the Avery Research Center for inclusion in the Isaiah Bennett Papers from Georgia State University archives collection on the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO). These include strike bulletins, correspondence, and news releases regarding the national 1945 Tobacco Workers' Strike. 4.) Materials regarding the local South Carolina chapter and national A. Philip Randolph Institute constitute the fourth series. Included is correspondence, minutes, and bylaws. 5.) The miscellaneous series includes resolutions from the AFL-CIO on civil rights and from the South Carolina Democratic Party regarding state minimum wage, voter registration, and election reform as well as other material.

Black Church Records Collection Papers

This collection represents work done by Margaretta Pringle Childs as a field archivist for the South Carolina Historical Society (SCHS), circa 1984. Contains Dr. Child's correspondence and working files, plus photocopies of church histories, Work Progress Administration papers, and other related documents.

Walter N. Boags Photographs, circa 1945-1960 [AMN 1053]

From 1949 to the late 1970s, Walter N. Boags (1917-1997) owned and operated Boags Modern Arts Photography Studio, one of the few African American photography studios in Charleston, South Carolina. During the 1980s, Boags continued to operate as a freelance photographer.

The collection consists mostly of black-and-white and color negatives, with some prints and proofs, taken by Walter Boags from 1945 through the 1980s. Boags' work focused on African Americans, African American groups, and architecture related to African American education, worship, and business in the Charleston area. Studio portraits include portraits of individuals, school photographs, graduation cap-and-gown portraits. On-site and studio work features commercial and business sites, schools and churches, sororities and fraternities, civic organizations, music and dance groups, women's groups and social organizations. Event photography includes weddings as well as mourning and memorial images of the deceased. Copy work done by Boags includes negatives and prints produced of 19th and 20th century images, including one image by African American photographer Charles Macbeth. Business-related material includes legal work consisting of photographs from traffic accidents and injuries. Personal material includes data on the Hamilton family, school certificates, Boags' notes from mortuary science classes, and other materials.

J. R. Bonds Papers, 1925 - 1986 [AMN 1082]

J. R. Bonds (1904-1992) was an African-American educator from South Carolina. In 1946, Bonds was selected as the Schools' Supervisor for Cooper River School District Four. In 1950, the Six Mile High School was officially renamed Bonds-Wilson High in honor of J. R. Bonds and John T. Wilson. J. R.'s wife, Lacy Campbell Bonds (1910-1973), was a registered nurse and secretary at Bonds-Wilson High School.

The collection contains programs, photographs, correspondence, newspapers and other materials related to educator J. R. Bonds. The coverage of the material is from 1925-1986. Please note that the collection contains newspapers chiefly from schools in North Charleston, South Carolina. Also includes household photographs as well as scenes of Lacy Bonds at Dixie Hospital in Hampton, Virginia, where she trained to become a nurse.

Book Lover's Club Records, 1927-1965

The Book Lover's Club of Charleston was founded in 1927 by African-American Women as a literary club with a purpose of establishing a high literary culture among its members as well as social improvement for Charleston African Americans. It helped battle racism and sexism through community-wide projects as well as neighborhood and youth activities throughout the city of Charleston.

Contains organizational documents, including constitution, correspondence, minutes, and account books. Also includes some program material and newsletter.

Brown Fellowship Society Records, 1794 - 1990 [AMN 1005]

The Brown Fellowship Society was a benevolent society of free African-American and racially mixed men, affiliated with the St. Philip's Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina.

The collection consists of organizational materials of the Brown Fellowship Society, including a corrected copy of Charles H. Holloway's Rules and Regulations of the Brown Fellowship Society as founded in 1794, but not published until 1844. Minute books detail the activities of monthly meetings from 1869 to 1911. Also included are minutes of meetings between 1913 and 1916. Topics include maintenance of the graveyard, attendance, elections, and discussions of aid to members and descendants, with many mentions of Holloway, DeReef, Sasportas, and Bonneau families. Many memorial pages dedicated to deceased members are part of the records. Loose correspondence relates to cemetery and building maintenance, some financial affairs, and membership details. Also includes a 1904 pictorial broadside and a 1990 program regarding the group's 200th anniversary.

J. Arthur Brown Papers, circa 1948-1959

A graduate of the Avery Normal Institute and South Carolina College, J. Arthur Brown assumed the presidency of the Charleston Branch of the NAACP in 1953. As president, he focused his efforts on public accommodations and public education. Under his leadership, branch membership increased from 300 to 3,000. His efforts toward desegregation included his participation in the desegregation of the Charleston Municipal Golf Course, Edisto Beach State Park, and the suit that integrated Charleston Schools. Contains correspondence, financial records, legal documents, newspaper clippings, printed materials, and a family photo album. Includes documents of the NAACP, Humane Friendly Society, and Avery's Class Reunion.

Ethyl R. Brown Papers, circa 1930s - 1991 [AMN 1006]

Ethyl R. Brown (1902-1997) was an African American beautician, cosmotology instructor, and beauty shop owner in Charleston, South Carolina.

The collection includes certificates, awards, photographs, and other documents related to Ethyl Brown's professional and social activities as well as her family. Certificates include a 1945 teaching certificate by South Carolina State Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners. There are also several photographs by Walter Boags, an African American photographer from Charleston, South Carolina.

Miriam M. Brown Papers, 1922 - 2002 [AMN 1098]

Miriam M. Brown (1901-2002) worked as an educator for fifty-two years at multiple schools in Charleston and Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. She received numerous recognitions for her work to the community, including a proclamation from the town of Mount Pleasant declaring October 12th of each year as Miriam Brown Memorial Day. Miriam married Arthur Felder Brown in 1928 and had two children, Arthur Felder Brown, Jr. and Jeanne Albertha Brown Morris.

The collection includes personal and professional material from Miriam Brown's life as well as personal material from her children, Arthur Brown, Jr. and Jeanne B. Morris. Miriam Brown personal items include a diploma from South Carolina State College, a scrapbook with feature articles, and proclamations honoring Miriam Brown's work in Mount Pleasant and Charleston. Professional material includes correspondence to and from Brown while principal of Laing School, retirement forms, and teaching certificates. The Arthur F. Brown, Jr. material includes a diploma from Avery Institute and a school certificate from Laing School. The Jeanne B. Morris materials include a diploma from Avery Institute and an excerpt from In and Out of the Shadows: The Life and Contributions of Miriam Shivery Moore Brown written by Jeanne B. Morris.

Melvin W. Brown, Jr., Papers, 1934-1994

W. Melvin Brown, Jr. was born on February 19, 1934 in Charleston, South Carolina to William and Eva Taylor Brown. Growing up in Charleston, Brown attended public schools for a while, but later his parents sent him to Immaculate Conception Catholic School. He was a well-rounded student who played football and basketball, performed in the school plays, and spoke in oratorical contests. He graduated from South Carolina State College in 1956 and was drafted into the U.S. Army. After serving two years he started life as a school teacher in 1958. Along with his teaching duties, he coached football and basketball at Burke High School in Charleston.

In 1972, Melvin Brown went into business for himself with a grant from the Small Business Administration's 8a Program which assists minority businesses in getting started. He started a company called American Development Corporation, or more commonly, ADCOR. ADCOR first appeared on Black Enterprise Magazine's "Top 100 Black Businesses in the U.S." list in 1978 and remained there until Brown's death in 1994. In addition to being CEO and President of one of the largest minority-owned companies in the United States, Brown made time to serve the Charleston and South Carolina communities in many ways.

The collection of W. Melvin Brown, Jr. (MB), 1934-1994, contains personal documents, correspondence, photographs, newspaper clippings and numerous materials dealing with American Development Corporation (ADCOR) and Mr. Brown's many other professional and civic endeavors. The materials in this collection date from the early 1950's up to the late 1990's and give an intimate view into the personal and professional life of Melvin Brown.

Millicent Ellison Brown Papers, circa 1949-2003 (bulk 1964-2003)[AMN 1003]

Millicent Ellison Brown (b. 1948) is an educator and civil rights activist. Born in Charleston to MaeDe and J. Arthur Brown, local and state president of NAACP (1955-1965), Brown, in 1963, replaced her older sister Minerva as the primary plaintiff in a NAACP-sponsored lawsuit (Millicent Brown vs. Charleston County School District #20). Brown's papers consist of personal and professional documents, correspondence, and newspaper clippings relating to her experience in integrating Rivers High School, student at Howard University (1987-1988); and Florida State University (1991-1998); and teaching at Bennett (1995-1999); Guilford (1999-2002); North Carolina A&T (2001-2002); and The Governor's School of the College of Charleston (2002-).

Millicent E. Brown Papers, 1949 - 2003 [AMN 1003]

Millicent Ellison Brown was an educator and civil rights activist from Charleston, South Carolina.

The collection consists of personal and professional documents, correspondence, and newspaper clippings relating to Millicent Brown's experience integrating Rivers High School; studying at Howard University and Florida State University; and teaching at Bennett College, Guilford College, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, and the Governor's School of the College of Charleston. Other documents pertain to Brown's involvement with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., the Avery Research Center, the National Coalition of Blacks for Reparations, and other political and civic activities. Brown's writings focus on the Civil Rights Movement in Charleston, South Carolina and include papers given at conferences and her essay "The Dippity Doo Revolution: Or Grown Folks Don't Have a Clue."

James E. Campbell Papers, 1930 - 2009 [AMN 1113]

James E. Campbell (born 1925), an African American educator and civil rights activist, worked as a teacher in Baltimore, Maryland; New York, New York; and Tanzania. He later became an administrator with the New York City public school system. Campbell also served as contributing editor for the journal Freedomways. Relocating after retirement, he became a community activist in Charleston, South Carolina and continued his involvement with educational initiatives. Throughout his life, Campbell has worked with organizations focused on socialism, Pan-Africanism, freedom struggles, and equity in education.

This collection includes correspondence, writings, photographs, and other material documenting the personal, professional, and ideological interests of James E. Campbell. Correspondence includes letters written by Campbell to Betty Shabazz, letters from the Malcolm X Commemoration Committee, and professional correspondence relating to Campbell's involvement with the Charleston branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the South Carolina Algebra Project. Photographs include images of an Audubon Ballroom Rally attended by Malcolm X and Ella Lee-Little Collins, images of Nelson Mandela's 1990 visit to New York, and personal photographs. Professional materials chiefly relate to Campbell's career as an educator and school administrator in New York; his association with the Organization of Afro-American Unity's Liberation School; documentation of his tenure as an English teacher in Tanzania; and civic involvement related to educational issues in Charleston, South Carolina. A large portion of this series consists of printed material relating to the South Carolina Algebra Project, including transition curriculums and budgets; organizational materials, photographs, and a scrapbook related to Nelson Mandela's visit to New York in 1990; and pedagogical materials. Also included is material related to James E. Campbell's political and social activism. Subject files include interview transcripts of Malcolm X and printed material relating to Jesse Jackson, South Africa, Central America, and the Caribbean. Publications and clippings include international, national, and local newsletters, publications, newspaper, and magazine clippings assembled by James E. Campbell. Newspaper and magazine clippings are heavily represented, a large portion of which relate to the life, death and legacy of Malcolm X. Other topics include education in South Carolina and the United States; South African political and social issues, including apartheid; African American art, culture, and history; child welfare; economics and business; civil rights; and various issues in national and international politics. The collection also includes drafts of Campbell's poetry and other writings.

Carr Family Scrapbook

The Carr Family Scrapbook traces its members - including John W., Leroy, and their families - through their attendance at Avery and other points in their lives.

Contains photographs of family and friends, clippings, correspondence, and other memorabilia of African-American life in Charleston.

Centenary United Methodist Church Records, circa 1857-1980

The Centenary United Methodist Church was established by free blacks that had worshiped in the gallery of Trinity United Methodist Church before the Civil War. With the help of the American Missionary Association, they acquired the current building from the congregation of the Wentworth Street Baptist Church in 1866. Upon learning that the transaction was being arranged for an African-American congregation by northern missionaries, the sellers stipulated that the transaction had to be completed in gold. The elegant Greek Revival structure at 60 Wentworth dates to 1842 and was designed by noted Charleston architect E. B. White.

Contains ledger books of all types, including baptism, marriage, financial, and Sunday School records.

Brown Fellowship Society Records, 1794 - 1990 [AMN 1005]

The Brown Fellowship Society was a benevolent society of free African-American and racially mixed men, affiliated with the St. Philip's Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina.

The collection consists of organizational materials of the Brown Fellowship Society, including a corrected copy of Charles H. Holloway's Rules and Regulations of the Brown Fellowship Society as founded in 1794, but not published until 1844. Minute books detail the activities of monthly meetings from 1869 to 1911. Also included are minutes of meetings between 1913 and 1916. Topics include maintenance of the graveyard, attendance, elections, and discussions of aid to members and descendants, with many mentions of Holloway, DeReef, Sasportas, and Bonneau families. Many memorial pages dedicated to deceased members are part of the records. Loose correspondence relates to cemetery and building maintenance, some financial affairs, and membership details. Also includes a 1904 pictorial broadside and a 1990 program regarding the group's 200th anniversary.

Central Baptist Church Records, circa 1891-1916

The Central Baptist Church, established in 1891, and is located in downtown Charleston on Radcliffe Street. Contains copies of pages from the Church Record Books: Book 1, 1891-1899, and Book 2, 1891-1916.

Charleston County Black School Directory Papers, circa 1882-1990

The Charleston County Black School Directory is an extension of the 1989 Research Conference, "The History of African American Education in Charleston, South Carolina." The purpose of this Avery Research Center project is to begin documenting the long struggle of African-Americans in the Lowcountry to educate their children-despite the laws and customs that hindered them.

Contains information on individual historically African-American schools in the area, along with survey information on these institutions. Also contains guidelines for organizing school histories and historical documentation of Charleston's African-American Schools.

Charleston County Department of Social Services Records, circa 1919-1989

The Department of Social Services Collection is a compilation of non-confidential administrative reports and various public welfare studies donated by the Charleston County Department of Social Services. The majority of the material pertains to Charleston County, but some has statewide significance.

Approximately 40% of the collection pertains to the African -American experience in the region. Contains letters, memoranda, reports, statistics, and other documents regarding the system of social services. Includes histories of the system in South Carolina, state and national surveys, and several theses.

Charleston, South Carolina Chapter of LINKS, Inc., Records, circa 1951-2005 [AMN 1016]

The Charleston South Carolina chapter is part of the Links, Incorporated, a historically African American national women's service organization committed to educational, cultural, and civic activities. The organization was founded in Philadelphia, PA in 1946; the Charleston chapter was organized in 1951. There are three major series: one on the local Charleston Chapter; another on the regional Southern Area; and the third relating to National Headquarters, in Washington, D.C.; with the bulk of the collection focusing on the Charleston Chapter. Each series contains organizational papers; minutes; financial reports; memorandums; and correspondence along with brochures, programs, and newspaper clippings.

Margaretta Pringle Childs Papers, circa 1940-1985 (bulk 1984-1985) [AMN 1013]

Margaretta Pringle Childs worked as archivist at the College of Charleston, head archivist for the City of Charleston and a field archivist for the South Carolina Historical Society. In addition to her archival work, Childs was a member of the Charleston Interracial Committee and a Civil Rights activist. The materials in this collection form the working files of Margretta P. Childs's unsuccessful project to collect and house the records of Charleston's black churches at the South Carolina Historical Society. The collection contains mostly photocopied correspondence from Childs to various ministers regarding church records and brief histories of some of the churches.

Septima Poinsette Clark Papers, circa 1919-1990 [AMN 1000]

Septima Poinsette Clark (1898-1987) was born on May 3, 1898 in Charleston, SC. Her father had been born enslaved and her mother was a native of Haiti. Mrs. Clark was a graduate of the Avery Normal Insititute in Charleston, and began her long teaching career on rural John's Island, SC in 1916. She earned a bachelor's degree at Benedict College and a masters degree from Hampton Institute in Virginia. Mrs. Clark took an activist position early on in her career, and was ultimately fired from the Charleston City Schools for being an active member of the NAACP. This ended her career in public education, but not her career as an advocate and activist for civil and human rights. Mrs. Clark became a lecturer under the sponsorship of the Highlander School and a teacher training supervisor for the SCLC. In 1962 she published her autobiography, "Echo In My Soul." In 1964, she accompanied Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to Norway when he was presented the Nobel Peace Prize. President Jimmy Carter presented Mrs. Clark with a Living Legacy Award in 1979.

Contains personal papers, records, correspondence, photographs interviews and discussions, numerous writings for speeches and/or publication, various honorary degrees and awards, and materials reflecting Clark's activities as an educator and civil rights activist.

Coards Studio Photographs and Records, circa 1930s - 1990s [AMN 1086]

The Coards Studio was a photography studio owned and operated by Joseph and Rachel Coards in Charleston, South Carolina. Coards photographed African American families and individuals in the studio and various events and groups outside of the studio, such as graduations, weddings, and other ceremonies. The studio, located at 78 Line Street, closed in the late 20th century.

The collection contains business records, photographs, and personal material, including customer contacts, correspondence, individual, family, group, and event portraits and snapshots, and Coards family photograph albums. The bulk of the collection is composed of photographs of African Americans, which include family, group, and individual portraits; events; architecture; snapshots; reprints; and negatives. Aside from general individual and group portraits, there are photographs depicting various occupations, fraternal organizations, and school functions. Events include dances, weddings, funerals, school events, and other community events. Represented in organizations are local church and religious groups, fraternal orders, and musical performers. A small portion of the photographs are scenes of various architecture and roadways in Charleston. The reprints and negatives span the range of subjects contained in the photographs.

Ruby P. Cornwell Papers, circa 1945-1980

Ruby P. Cornwell, a native of Forestaw, SC, earned a B.A. from Talladega in 1925 and taught English for many years. In Charleston she was active in Plymouth Congregational Church and served on the boards of several organizations, including the Charleston Branch of the NAACP. Through her work with the NAACP she developed close ties to U.S. District Judge Julius Waites Waring and his wife, Elizabeth. Judge Waring presided over several noted civil rights cases-ruling for integration and equal status. Mrs. Waring was known as an outspoken advocate for integration.

Contains personal correspondence, including that from Mrs. Waring, as well as a variety of programs, articles, and newspaper clippings. Also contains court documents, speeches, and a great deal of information that pertains to the Warings.

Frederica Daly Papers, 1923 - 2004 [AMN 1111]

Frederica ("Freddy") Daly (born 1925) was a licensed psychologist and educator with over 30 years of teaching, training, counseling, clinical, and administrative experience. Daly specialized in adolescents, veterans, substance abusers, and families in treatment facilities, hospitals, and universities.

The collection contains correspondence, writings, and other items documenting the personal and professional interests of Frederica Daly. Personal materials include correspondence, genealogical research, photographs, and educational records such as Daly's transcripts, master's thesis, and dissertation. Professional materials chiefly relate to Frederica Daly's career as a mental health professional, including presentations given by Daly at various workshops, conferences, and seminars. Daly's presentations and professional writings focus on substance abuse as well as race, gender, and culture, particularly on issues related to Native American women. Professional correspondence, agendas, institutional documents, and certificates reflect Daly's clinical practice and academic appointments at institutions such as George Junior Republic Association, Inc., Empire State College, the University of New Mexico, and the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The collection also contains diaries, sketchbooks, and creative writing by Daly. Dating from 1961 to 2004, Daly's journal entries contain reflections, pasted-in clippings and correspondence, and drawings that reflect her life experiences, daily meditations, and world travels, especially in the American Southwest, Central America, and South America. Themes include spirituality, sexuality, gender and cultural issues, personal growth and self-development.

Frank A. DeCosta Papers, circa 1867-1972

Frank A. DeCosta (1910-1972) was born in Charleston, South Carolina. He was the eleventh child of Anna Harrenburg DeCosta and Benjamin R. DeCosta. DeCosta, a noted administrator, college professor, and scholar, played a major role in helping African American schools and colleges move into the mainstream of American education. In a career that spanned four decades, he served as teacher and principal of two high schools, supervisor and chairman of an education department, director of instruction and of student teaching, foreign service statistical officer, and organizing dean of two graduate schools. Contains photographs, documents and a wealth of correspondence from the 19th and 20th centuries. With this collection, in addition to the three-tiered generational DeCosta family material, we are also given an intimate view into the life of Frank A. DeCosta, scholar, educator, administrator, writer, world traveler, husband, and father.

H. A. DeCosta, Jr. Papers, 1854 - 2009 [AMN 1084]

Herbert A. DeCosta, Jr. (1923-2008) was a renowned African American architect and contractor based in Charleston, South Carolina. While he served as president of the H. A. DeCosta Company, the company worked on the construction and renovations of numerous churches, apartment complexes, schools, and residences, including some of the most architecturally significant houses in Charleston. The DeCosta Company also did much of the renovation and preservation work for Historic Charleston Foundation in the Ansonborough neighborhood of Charleston and elsewhere, did similar work for the Preservation Society of Charleston, and carried out much of the renovation and preservation projects on a number of College of Charleston properties, as the campus expanded. DeCosta designed, built, and renovated homes for elite and middle-class white and black Charlestonians, and his work has been featured in many national publications. DeCosta was also invloved in various other businesses including HADCO Realty Company, a real estate and housing rental company; Midway, a grocery store; and a general insurance company.

The collection includes materials related to the professional and personal life of Herbert DeCosta, Jr., his wife Emily, and numerous family members. 1. Business Records series covers multiple corporate entities, chiefly H. A. DeCosta Company General Contractors, the HADCO Realty Company, and the Midway Company, Inc. Within these business records are financial information, operational and administrative documents, work files, and legal suit documentation. The property files of the H. A. DeCosta Company General Contractors contain invoices, estimates, blueprints, drawings, and photographs related to residences, stores, churches, and other properties principally in South Carolina (particularly Charleston). 2. Herbert A. DeCosta, Jr. series contains correspondence, photographs, artwork, travel journals, awards and other memorabilia related to Herbert A. DeCosta's education, travels, and personal and professional history. Also includes materials concerning to his civic involvement, which includes numerous community and cultural organizations, fraternal organizations, and professional affiliations. 3. Emily DeCosta series includes materials related to Emily Spencer DeCosta's education, early life, civic involvement and correspondence. Materials also relate to the Spencer family. 4. St. Mark's Episcopal Church series includes committee notes, church bulletins, and other material that reflect Herbert and Emily DeCosta's involvement with St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Charleston. 5. Includes materials related to Herbert A. DeCosta's paternal family history, including correspondence, photographs, publications, and other memorabilia. Herbert A. DeCosta, Sr. and other family members descended from Benjamin and Anna DeCosta are represented. Also includes members of the Sartor family, the Caffey family, the Higgins family, and others. 6. Craft and Kinloch Families series includes material from the relatives of Herbert A. DeCosta's mother, Julia Craft DeCosta. Items include genealogical charts, last will and testaments, photographs, and correspondence from the Craft, Crum, and Kinloch families. Publications focus on the escape of William and Ellen Craft from slavery.

Gracie B. Dobbins Papers, 1924 and circa 1965-1986 [AMN 1075]

Gracie B. Dobbins (1905-2001) was an African American school teacher. She was born Gracie Lee Burns in 1905 and graduated Avery Institute in 1924 with a teaching certificate. She later married a Mr. Dobbins and taught at Minnie Hughes Elementary School on Yonges Island and possibly elsewhere. She served as Chairman of Annual Appeal of Dimes for the City Federation of Colored Women's Clubs in the 1960s. Dobbins died in Charleston in 2001.

The collection contains materials related to Grace B. Dobbins' education, teaching career, and affiliations. Includes lesson plans, 1965-1967 and undated, other school related materials; materials from the City Federation of Colored Women's Club; an Avery Institute diploma and associated graduation program, 1924; an Avery 50th reunion invitation and memorial matchbook, 1974; and other materials.

Walton Earl Douglas Papers, 1964-1979

Walter Earl Douglas wrote for a number of newspapers as a journalist and essayist. He moved to Mt. Pleasant from New York City in 1968 and wrote a column for the The Chronicle, an African-American newspaper based in Charleston. In his Column,"The Earl of Charleston," Mr. Douglas addressed, among other things, issues concerning the African -American community both at home and around the world. He was known for his conservative views and corresponded with other noted conservatives, including Jesse Helms, Gordon Hanna, and William Loeb. He also was active in community service, serving on a variety of boards and committees around the state.

Contains correspondence and an extensive collection of Mr. Douglas' writings, including columns, articles, speeches, poems, and other creative writings. Also contains some newspaper clippings as well as research notes and materials.

Dewey M. Duckett Papers, circa 1952-1964

Dr. Duckett of Rock Hill, SC was a Civil Rights activist and physician. He worked with the South Carolina Advisory Committee to the National Commission on Civil Rights and was an advocate for Licensed Practical Nursing in South Carolina.

Contains correspondence, memos, speeches, and clippings as well as minutes and official statements and records of the South Carolina Advisory Committee to the National Commission on Civil Rights.

Dr. W. Marvin Dulaney Papers, circa 1993-Present

Dr. W. Marvin Dulaney, is the Executive Director of the Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture and Chair of the College of Charleston History Department. He became director of the Avery Research Center in 1994 and chair of the History Department in 1998. He served in both positions from 1998-2000. In addition to leading the Avery Research Center and the History Department, he has also served on numberous local, state, and national boards, including the Cannon Street YMCA, 100 Black Men of Charleston, the Palmetto Project, and the Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History.

Contains correspondence, program notes, and articles that relate to the development, operation, and the 2nd phase of the renovation of the Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture. Includes documents regarding The African American National Heritage Museum and The Association for the Study of Afro-American Life & History (ASALH). Also includes some materials pertaining to Dr. Dulaney's classes and other activities at the College.

Ebenezer AME Church Papers, 1994-1996

Ebenezer AME Church was established in 1903, having previously been associated with the Presbyterian Board of City Missions. The congregation constructed its current church at 44 Nassau Street in 1949.

Contains information on church officers, class members and leaders, as well as minutes of board meetings.

Lucille Roper Edwards Papers, circa 1942-1995

Lucille Roper Edwards was an educator in Virginia, South Carolina, and Florida from 1947-1987. She currently resides in Moncks Corner, South Carolina.

Contains series of lesson plans for second grade as well as several other articles and items that relate to education.

Jerodene Ellis Papers [AMN 9007v]

Jerodene Ellis was a 1945 graduate of Laing High School in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.

The collection contains a Palmer Method handwriting book used by Jerodene Ellis in the sixth grade and Ellis' graduation diploma from Laing High School in 1945.

Emanuel A.M.E Church Records [AMN 1035]

Emanuel A.M.E. Church is located in the area of St. Andrew's Parish, Charleston County that once was part of the incorporated African American town of Maryville. The town lost its charter in 1936 and the area is now part of the City of Charleston. The church continues on its original site, at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Highway 61.

Entre Nous Bridge Club Records, 1924-1994

The Entre Nous Bridge Club ("between us" in French) was formed May 27, 1924 by a group of sixteen African-American women who had a passion for bridge and enjoyed the company of close friends. More than seventy years later, the original members' descendants and their friends have kept the tradition alive. Contains the constitution of the Entre Nous Bridge Club and record books of the meeting minutes with the club roll.

Reverend John T. Enwright Papers, 1884 - 1975 [AMN 1087]

Reverend John Thomas Enwright (1904-1975), an African American minister, served the congregation at Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ in Charleston, South Carolina from 1949 to 1974. A public figure as well as a religious leader, Enwright was also heavily involved in Charleston-area community organizations.

The collection documents Reverend Enwright's personal life, ministerial work, and civic involvement from the 1930s to 1975. Personal papers document Enwright's non-professional activities and family life. includes sermons and speeches, correspondence, programming, and administration relating to Enwright's position as pastor of Beecher Memorial United Church of Christ and Plymouth Congregational Church (later Plymouth Congregation United Church of Christ), and includes sermons and speeches delivered throughout his career. Major topics related to Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ include the relocation of the church, Sunday services, and special programming. A significant portion of this series reflects Enwright's involvement in the Congregational Christian Churches and United Church of Christ, as well as the Convention of the South, Southeast Conference, and Georgia-South Carolina Association -- regional bodies within those organizations. These materials relate to the unification of the Congregational Christian Churches and the Evangelical and Reformed Church; meetings, conferences, and conventions; domestic and international missionary work; and social and racial justice, especially through the Board of Homeland Ministries. Correspondence, organizational records, and other materials relate to Enwright's work with racial and social justice organizations and youth programs, such as the Concerned Clergy Committee (especially in response to the 1969 Hospital Workers' Strike); Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance; Political Action Committee; National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP); Economic Opportunity Commission; and Community Organization Federal Credit Union, of which he was co-founder. Materials also document Enwright's involvement in statewide initiatives, such as the South Carolina Council on Human Relations and South Carolina Commission for Farm Workers, Inc. A small portion of the collection contains church-related audio recordings, religious sheet music, publications, and newspaper clippings.

Herbert U. Fielding Papers, 1960 - 2007 [AMN 1108]

Herbert U. Fielding (born 1923), an African American, was a South Carolina Congressman and Senator. Fielding has also led the family business, the Fielding Home for Funerals in Charleston, South Carolina.

The collection documents Herbert U. Fielding's professional activities and political career from 1960 to 1992, with some material extending to 2006. Materials include professional and constituent correspondence, speeches, campaign materials, bills and resolutions, newspaper clippings, and other materials. Major topics include the founding of the Political Action Committee of Charleston County, South Carolina; federal revenue sharing; South Carolina race relations and politics, including the representation of African Americans in politics and professional organizations; and the racial reapportionment of South Carolina District 6, including Fielding's exploratory committee and primary campaign materials.

Mamie E. Garvin Fields Papers, circa 1925-1990

Mamie Garvin Fields began her teaching career after graduating from Claflin University. In 1908, she and her sister, Hattie, founded the first African -American school in Pinewood, S.C. The next year she returned to teach at Humber Wood Elementary on Johns Island, and then as principal at Miller Hill. In 1926 she relocated to Society Corner School on James Island. Mrs. Fields was the founder of the Modern Priscilla Club, an African -American Women's literary club, whose motto was "Lifting as We Climb." Active in many community efforts, she received numerous awards for her accomplishments. Mrs. Fields authored the book, Lemon Swamps and Other Places.

Contains various materials that pertain to her club and organizational activities, particularly church related and Federated Clubs. Also contains some correspondence and a number of unidentified photographs.

First African Baptist Church of Savannah, Georgia, Records, 1871-1990

The First African Baptist Church of Savannah, Georgia was established c. 1774 by George Leile, an enslaved minister who preached along the Savannah River. Although still without a permanent church structure, the congregation organized with a constitution in 1788. In 1832, Rev. Andrew Marshall, led the congregation to purchase property on Franklin Square where a church would be built. In the 1850s, parishioners, both free and enslaved African Americans, constructed the building that houses today's congregation at that site. The First African Baptist Church is the oldest surviving black church in North America.

Contains mainly photocopied materials detailing the history of the church, including organizational documents.

Donald Fraser Papers, circa 1940-1950

In the 1940s, Donald Fraser attended the Avery Normal Institute, as had his brother, James, as well as his father, aunts, and uncles. Before that, Mr. Fraser attended Immaculate Conception School. Contains items related to the Avery Normal Institute and Immaculate Conception School, including report cards and tuition receipts.

Herb Frazier Papers, 1972 - 2006 [AMN 1088]

Herb Frazier, an African American journalist based in the Lowcountry, has reported and edited for various newspapers in South Carolina and elsewhere since 1972. Frazier has been active in professional journalism associations and in education initiatives for minority journalism.

The collection includes materials related to the personal and professional life of Herb Frazier. A small portion of the collection contains biographical, educational, and other personal information. The bylines series contains published work spanning Frazier's career from 1972-2006, including bylines, proofs, and photographs. Bylines include stories written by Herb Frazier at the The State, The Post and Courier, The Charlotte Observer, and The York Observer. The subject files, which compose the largest portion of the collection, contain articles, interview notes, correspondence, source notes, and other written material chiefly gathered by Herb Frazier in the course of his story research. Major topics include higher education in South Carolina, with a focus on the Citadel, Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), and University of South Carolina; education reform in the middle grades; and race relations. Also included are various regional topics, including court cases, law enforcement issues, and the annexation of James Island. The professional activities series includes organizational materials, documents, event invitations, and correspondence related to various journalism associations, conferences, educational outreach, and travel. The minority journalism series includes correspondence, conference material, organizational planning documents, programs, and other material related to the National Association of Black Journalists and its regional affiliate, South Carolina Association of Black Journalists. Also includes materials related to the college and high school on minority journalism as well as articles and printed material regarding the topic of minority journalism.

Friendly Union Society Records, circa 1912-1991

The Friendly Union Society was formed in Charleston in 1813 for the relief of orphans and widows and to provide for the general welfare of the community. This Charleston African American Burial Society and Social Organization endured until 1981.

Contains original and photocopied documents of the organization, including the constitution and bylaws, minutes, ledger books, treasurer's materials, and plat map of burial ground by Magnolia Cemetery.

Sandra N. Fowler Papers, circa 1965-1995

Contains articles, correspondence, and other information about The Old Slave Mart Museum, Black Heritage Research Center, Political Elections, The Hospital Workers Strike (Union Local 1199), and the Community Relations Committee (1992-3), among others.

Tobias Gadson, Sr., Papers, circa 1980-1986

Tobias Gadson was born in Walterboro, South Carolina and grew up in Charleston as the youngest of thirteen children. In 1947, he graduated from Immaculate Conception School and married Zelia Washington. They had two sons, Tobias, Jr. and Arnold. A veteran, Mr. Gadson studied industrial arts at Voorhees College. Later, he studied at the Buchanan Barber College in Chicago, and then opened his own barber shop on Spring Street in 1957. In 1980, he successfully ran for state representative and worked diligently for his district-particularly appreciated were his efforts for appropriations for much needed drainage work in the Union Heights area.

Contains correspondence, event programs, newspaper clippings and campaign memorabilia from Mr. Gadson's career.

Gethsemane Baptist Association Records, 1867-1878

The Gethsemane Baptist Association, a regional organization established in 1867, was the first black Baptist Association in South Carolina. In 1877, it was renamed as the Ashley Baptist Association. Contains minutes of conference meetings held throughout the region as well as statistical data and governing documents for the association.

The Reverend Cannon Henry L. Grant Papers, 1962-1990

The Reverend Cannon Henry Lacy Grant, born in North Augusta and educated at the University of Iowa and Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary. In his early years in the priesthood, he served at the Church of the Atonement in Walterboro, Epiphany in Summerville, and as the Chaplain of Voorhees College in Denmark, S.C. Rev. Grant married Owilender Kennedy of Walterboro and they had one son, Henry, Jr. In 1962, Rev. Grant came to Charleston as the rector of St. Stephen's Episcopal church, where he worked with some of the city's poorer residents on Charleston's East Side. It was there that he established St. John's Mission Center in an old church building at 18 Hanover St. that provided organized youth activities promoting educational and leadership skills. Rev. Grant also founded Operation Compenso at Camp Baskerville on Pawley's Island, which offered summer camp opportunities for junior high school students needing academic assistance. He was also involved in numerous community organizations.

Contains correspondence, articles, photographs, and other documents that pertain to Rev. Grant's career and civic activities , including program and financial information of the St. John's Episcopal Mission Center as well as operational material and articles about Operation Compenso. Collection also contains correspondence and construction information for the renovation of St. Stephen's Church, plus items and articles about Rev. Grant's participation in national and community organizations.

Graves Family Papers, 1884 - 2004 [AMN 1081]

The Graves family of Charleston, South Carolina, was an African American family consisting largely of educators and Avery Institute graduates. James R. B. Graves, Jr. (1883-1969), a Pullman porter and union member of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, married Rose Laura Winds (1890-1978) in 1915. Together, they raised five children: J. Michael, Pauline, Annette, Robert, and Eugene. J. Michael Graves (1915-1996), a Class of 1932 graduate of the Avery Institute, was an educator and musician in the Charleston area. Pauline R. Graves (1917-2002) conducted educational research and taught at Courtenay Middle School. Annette Graves Chambers (died 1983) worked as an educator at Ben Tillman Elementary School. Robert Blackburne Graves graduated from Avery in 1944 and Johnson C. Smith in 1949. The youngest, Eugene Graves, was an educator and sports coach at Bonds-Wilson High School in North Charleston. Eugene coached several athletes that achieved successful sports careers, including Art Shell and Jim Jackson.

The collection includes materials related to the Graves family of Charleston, South Carolina, chiefly James R. B. Graves, his wife Rose L. Graves, and their children J. Michael, Pauline, Annette, Robert, and Eugene. The James R. B. Graves series includes correspondence, photographs, and artifacts chiefly related to his career as a porter with the Pullman Company as well as his association with the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters labor union. The Rose L. Graves series documents her work for the USO and the Charleston Area Civilian Defense Council. The J. Michael Graves series is the largest in the collection. This series includes correspondence, memory books, event programs, and other materials related to his education, teaching career at Avery Normal Institute and Burke High School, membership in the Kappa Alpha Psi Franternity and the Elder Watson Diggs Award, and Charleston area organizations and events. The Annette Graves Chambers' series includes materials related to Annette's education and professional activities. The Robert Blackburne Graves series includes materials related to his education, chiefly at Avery Normal Institute, and his affliation with Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity. The Eugene Graves series includes largely photographs and sports memorabilia related to his coaching career at Bonds-Wilson High School. Materials also relate to Rose's sister Etta Winds Wilson, Etta's husband John T. Wilson, and members of the Winds and Wilson side of the family. Photographs and slides include Graves family members, Avery Institute, Burke High School, Bonds-Wilson High School, and other images. Also included are materials related to the Avery Institute of Afro-American History and Culture (AIAAHC), clippings related to the Avery Institute and African American heritage, and other materials.

Reuben Greenberg Papers, 1990 - 1997 [AMN 1079]

Reuben Greenberg (born 1943) was appointed Chief of Police of the Charleston Police Department in 1982, becoming the the first African American and first Jewish Chief of Police in Charleston, South Carolina. During his tenure (1982-2005), Reuben became known nationally and internationally for his innovative and controversial approach to fighting crime through prevention rather than reaction.

This collection consists of correspondence, articles, program and other miscellaneous materials from the career of Charleston's African American Jewish Police Chief Reuben Greenberg, 1990-1997. Arranged by material, this collection includes numerous articles and publications that detail Greenberg's professional philosophy, crime fighting methods, and surrounding controversies as well as autobiographical details. Also included are awards and programs for events honoring Greenberg and letters, chiefly of thanks, regarding speeches and workshops delivered by Greenberg.

Isabelle Smalls Griffin Papers, circa 1945-1985

Contains transcripts of speeches, programs, and other memorabilia from Avery Institute (1940s) and Baptist Hill High School (1960-1985).

Lonnie Hamilton, III Papers, 1950 - 2001 [AMN 1096]

Lonnie Hamilton, III was a musician, educator, and community leader. Notably, Hamilton was the first African American to serve on the Charleston County Council.

The collection includes material related to Hamilton's personal life and professional career as an educator, musician, and Charleston County Councilman. The material in the personal series includes feature articles on his life, his involvement with community organizations including Spoleto Festival, U.S.A., and political groups such as the Charleston County Democratic Party. The professional material includes programs and newspaper articles about Hamilton's career as the Band Director for Bonds-Wilson High School and his position as the Director of Adult Education. Programs, newspaper articles, and correspondence reflect his career as a Charleston County Councilman. His musical career is documented with invitations and programs from various performances by Lonnie Hamilton and the Diplomats, Lonnie Hamilton and the Ambassadors, and the Lonnie Hamilton Quintet. Materials also relate to other professional ventures, such as Lonnie's, a nightclub in Charleston, South Carolina.

Harleston Funeral Home Records, circa 1900-1960

The Harleston Funeral Home, now the Harleston-Boags Funeral Home, was owned and operated by descendants of the Mickey family who had established Charleston's Mickey Funeral Home in the nineteenth century. Edwin Harleston, an Avery graduate who was actively involved in establishing the Charleston chapter of the NAACP, was an undertaker as well as respected painter.

Contains ledgers and receipt books, including information on individual funerals, insurance records, inventories, and receipts.

See also the Mickey Funeral Home Collection.

Evangeline Banks Harrison Papers, circa 1850-1985 (bulk circa 1940-1959) [AMN 1032]

Born in Hampton, Virginia, in 1898, Helen (often called Evangeline, or "Vangi") Banks, the daughter of Issiah and Anna DeCosta Banks. The collection consists of personal materials and those documenting Harrison's mother, Anna DeCosta Banks, the Hospital and Training School for Nurses and McClennan-Banks hospital. Personal papers of Evangeline Banks Harrison and her family include her Avery Institute graduation program (1917), a school essay, biographical data, inspirational clippings, photographs, including an unidentified daguerreotype (ca. 1850s) and a sporadically kept diary (ca. 1937-40s).

Dr. Louis Hassell Papers

Contains information from Cuspids, Inc., a book of newspaper clippings and photographs of 1896 Black History Month at the Naval Weapons Station.

Hicks and Steele Family Papers, 1882 - 1916 [AMN 9001v]

The Hicks family, originally from Savannah, Georgia and New York, are an African-American family in Charleston, South Carolina. John O. Hicks married Sadie Steele and had one son, J. Maurice Hicks, father of Janet Hicks. Sadie's family, the Steeles of Missouri, are decedents of the Randolph family who left Charleston, South Carolina in 1800 and relocated to Jersey City, New Jersey.

The collection includes materials related to Hicks and Steele family members, gathered by Janet Hicks. Materials include a marriage certificate for Robert A. Steele and Selina L. Spearing; a Steele family tree; and photographs of Sadie Steele Hicks, J. Maurice Hicks, and others.

Augustus Holt Collection on Charleston Little League [AMN 9005v]

In 1955, the Cannon Street YMCA Little League fielded a team of African American youth All-Stars. The Cannon Street All-Stars advanced to the state Little League tournament; in protest, South Carolina's 61 all-white Little League teams withdrew from the state tournament. Because of the white teams' refusal to participate in integrated tournament, the Cannon Street All-Stars won by default but were effectively barred from further competition by the National League. In response to integrated Little League baseball, all-white Dixie Youth baseball began in 1955 in Charleston. In 1994, Augustus Holt succeeded in bringing Little League back to Charleston. Holt became president of the Charleston American Little League, overseeing the sports program and organizing a celebration of the fortieth anniversary of the Cannon Street YMCA All-Stars baseball team.

Augustus J. Holt collected various materials regarding Charleston, South Carolina youth baseball during his crusade to return Little League baseball to Charleston and his later tenure as president of the Charleston American Little League. Newspaper clippings cover the Cannon Street YMCA baseball team; Little League baseball in Africa; and segregation in recreation in Charleston and the American South; and the establishment of the Charleston American Little League in 1994. Materials also include requests for support and flyers by the Charleston American Little League; programs and statements depicting the impact of the Cannon Street YMCA Baseball League and its successor, the Charleston American Little League; and a photograph of Augustus Holt with his son, Lawrence Holt, and others.

Alphonso W. Hoursey Papers, circa 1918-1972

After graduating from the Avery Normal Institute, Alphonso Hoursey went on to Fisk University where he received a B. A. in Education in 1926. Mr. Hoursey returned to Avery as a teacher and became director of the junior high school where he taught various subjects, including Latin, English, Psychology, and Education. He became Chief advisor to the Hi-Y Club, dedicated to manners and civility. When Avery Normal School closed in 1954, Mr. Hoursey moved to Burke High School where he taught until he retired in 1966.

Contains photographs, articles, and memorabilia relating to Mr. Hoursey's life as an educator. Also contains some items from the Simmons Family Collection donated by Thelma Hoursey Simmons, Mr. Hoursey's sister.

Holloway Family Scrapbook, circa 1776-1977

James Harrison Holloway (1849-1913) was born a free person of color in Charleston where he attended a private school for free Negro children and grew up attending in the gallery of Trinity Methodist Church on Meeting Street. Dedicated to preserving his family history for future generations, he began this scrapbook. He also took interest in the achievements of all African -Americans, collecting newspaper articles and postcards to document their notoriety.

Contains documents, correspondence, and clippings that pertain to business, family history, social activities, and organizations, including the Brown Fellowship Society, Trinity Trustees, Centenary United Methodist Episcopal Church, and the Christian Benevolent Society, among others.

Mrs. F. Holmes Scrapbook, circa 1880-1940

Mrs. Holmes collected materials that show her broad range of interests and reflect the life of African- Americans in the Lowcountry and South Carolina. Mr. Holmes was an educator, doctor, and an activist with the NAACP.

Contains articles, pictures, correspondence, and memorabilia that follow the lives of the Holmes family. Included is information about Mr. Fordham, a black police officer in Charleston at the end of the nineteenth century, and Thomas E. Miller, the Reconstruction politician and the first president of South Carolina State Unversity.

Eugene C. Hunt Papers, circa 1890-1995

Eugene C. Hunt graduated from the Avery Normal School and went on to Talladega College, where he received a Degree in English in 1940. He earned a Master's Degree in Theater from Northwestern University in 1954 and continued with postgraduate study in Speech and Education. Mr. Hunt taught English and Speech at Burke High School in Charleston from 1941 to 1972. In 1972, he became an Assistant Professor of English and Speech at the College of Charleston, moving up to Associate Professor in 1985. He taught at the College until his retirement in 1992. Mr. Hunt was active in many community organizations, including the NAACP, Avery Institute, and St. Mark's Episcopal Church.

Contains numerous, diverse materials that follow Mr. Hunt's interests and activities, especially education and African- American activism. Includes correspondence, articles, books, magazines, and papers from his own collection as well as additional materials donated to him because of his involvement as president of Avery Institute for Afro-American History and Culture.

See also Hunt Photograph Collection.

International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftsmen Records, circa 1899-1990

The International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftsmen, Local No. 1 of South Carolina was organized as an association of bricklayers in 1885. This African -American labor union is the oldest in continual operation in the state. Its first members were both free and enslaved people prior to the Civil War.

Contains membership cards, financial records, minutes and correspondence-some concerning the A. Philip Randolph Institute of South Carolina. Also contains some photographs and memorabilia, including the program and award information from the brickwork competition won by this group as part of the South Carolina Interstate and West Indian Exposition held in Charleston in 1901.

William Henry Jackson Papers, circa 1950-1970

William Henry Jackson was an artist and director of the SCAF Gallery.

Contains correspondence from Eugene Hunt, Jean Fleming, Alfred and Bessie Hutty, among others. Also contains some photographs and an assortment of articles about Mr. Jackson and his activities.

Cambridge Jenkins, Jr., Papers, circa 1950-1983

Cambridge Jenkins, Jr., joined the Charleston Police Department in 1950, becoming one of the first African American policemen in the Department. With a promotion in 1955 he became the first African- American detective on that force. He joined the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED) in 1961. Detective Jenkins later returned to the Charleston Police Department until 1963. He was appointed as the first minority United State Deputy Marshall for the Southeastern District of South Carolina. He retired in 1983.

Contains photocopies of a scrapbook covering the career of Detective Jenkins. Also includes correspondence, police reports, certificates, memorabilia, and newspaper articles.

Esau Jenkins Papers, 1964-2003 [AMN 1004]

Esau Jenkins (1910-1972) was born and raised on Johns Island, South Carolina. With very little formal education, he became a businessman and civil rights leader.

The collection is divided into four small series: 1.) Biographical papers include printed tributes; death notices and materials, including funeral sermons; a compact disc of images and other papers documenting lectures and exhibits regarding Jenkins held after his death, along with programs, correspondence and related material regarding naming of buildings, services and a bridge after him. With genealogical information on Jenkins and his family. 2.) The series on his writings holds miscellaneous correspondence and notes and printed versions of his talks and writings. 3.) Information on his affiliations contains correspondence, brochures, notes, and other data on variety of organizations he helped found or was a member of, including the Progressive Club, Citizen's Committee of Charleston, Community Organization Credit Union, Political Action Committee of Charleston County, Political Awareness League of Charleston County, and the Highlander Folks Center. Topics mentioned include the 1969 Charleston Hospital Worker's strike, and the protested death of a young African American, Robert Brown, killed by a white policeman in 1970. 4.) Miscellaneous materials include photocopies of published materials documenting life on Johns Island, South Carolina and Jenkins' role in citizenship schools run by the Highlander Center and funded by the Emil Schwarzhaupt Foundation.

Fredricka Jenkins-Andrews Papers, 1972 - 1983 [AMN 9003v]

Fredricka Jenkins-Andrews (1914-2010), an Avery Normal Institute graduate, taught public school in Charleston County, South Carolina and Buffalo, New York. For her performance in the Buffalo Public School System, Jenkins-Andrews received an Oustanding Teachers of America award in 1972 and was nominated for National Teacher of the Year in 1974.

The collection contains materials related to Fredricka Jenkins-Andrews' teaching career. Includes correspondence regarding award nominations, 1972-1973; materials related to her retirement ceremony and other professional recognition; and clippings regarding her career, post-retirement teaching activities, and community involvement.

Jerome Johnson Photographs, 1995-1996

Jerome Johnson is a professional photographer who has photographed numerous events in the South Carolina Lowcountry.

Contains negatives and prints of such events as Penn Center Heritage Days, the Inauguration of Charleston's Mayor, Joseph P. Riley, the South Carolina Conference of Black Mayors, and various ceremonies at the Avery Research Center.

Laing High School Collection, circa 1926-1990

Laing High School, established in Mount Pleasant in 1866, served the African- American community there.

Contains photographs, programs, articles, and memorabilia from the archives of Lois Simms, an Avery graduate who taught there. Also includes some school records, yearbooks, and histories of the school.

Anna D. Kelly Papers [AMN 1083]

Anna D. Kelly (1913-2007) is known for her efforts to connect Lowcountry African Americans with the Highlander Folk School, most notably recruiting Septima Clark. A graduate of the Avery Normal Institute in Charleston, South Carolina, Kelly was a charter member of the Avery Institute of African American History and Culture. She then played a crucial role in establishment of the Avery Research Center.

The collection includes personal papers and photographs related to Anna D. Kelly and her family. Materials also include clippings, photographs, and other material related to Kelly's civic involvement, such as her celebrated committment to the social work profession, her Catholic affiliation and church involvement, and her work with organizations like the Charleston County Library, the Foster Grandparent program, and the South Carolina Commission on Aging. The collection also contains documents, photographs, and correspondence related to the Avery Normal Institute, Avery's Class of 1932 and class reunions, programs and exhibits of the Avery Institute of Afro-American History and Culture, and the planning and establishment of the Avery Research Center.

James Logan Scrapbooks, 1896 - 1961 [AMN 1010]

James Raymond Logan (1874-1958) was the first native Charlestonian to receive a civil service appointment for work at the Charleston Navy Yard, and was the first African American appointee. Logan also directed Logan's Military Band and the choirs of Calvary Protestant Episcopal Church and Zion Presbyterian Church.

This collection includes newspaper clippings, programs, photographs and correspondence that originally comprised two scrapbooks (now disbound) created by James Raymond Logan. The materials document the personal and professional life of Logan as well as achievements of African Americans, racial issues, politics, music, and the church, particularly in the Charleston area of South Carolina. The collection contains numerous newspaper clippings regarding life at the Charleston Navy Shipyard. Other newspaper clippings include information regarding events taking place in the city of Charleston and in other cities in South Carolina. In addition, there are newspaper clippings about events, especially political, impacting on life in South Carolina, other southern states, and the nation. The collection also contain programs, largely musical in nature; correspondence such as invitations, letters of appreciation, and notices of meetings; articles revealing the achievements of African Americans in professions, especially in sports, music, and the field of invention; articles on the plight of the African Americans, on religion and the church, and on Logan as a participant in clubs and lodges. Also included are speeches made by Logan at social events as well as those delivered by his colleagues.

"Looking Quite Like Soliders!" Curriculum, 1995 - 1997 [AMN 1095]

"Looking Quite Like Soliders!", winner of the 1996 Steppingstone Prize, was developed by educators at James P. Timilty Middle School in Boston, Massachusetts. The curriculum provides an interdisciplinary, thematic curriculum that explores the historical context for African American participation in the Civil War and the all-black 54th Massachusetts Volunteers, a famed Union regiment. Lesson plans incorporate excerpts from letters of James Henry Gooding, maps of Camp Meigs and Boston, and secondary sources.

The collection includes a notebook containing the award-winning curriculum "Looking Quite Like Soldiers!: Reliving the History of the 54th Massachussetts Volunteers"; a penant of Timilty Middle School; and photographs of student reenactors and staff members, 1997.

Ruth Miller Papers, 1981 - 2003 [AMN 1107]

Ruth M. Miller (born 1943) was an active member of the predominantly African American Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ in Charleston, South Carolina. She also served on Plymouth's Board of Trustees. Plymouth Congregational Church was established in 1867 and became Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ in 1957.

The collection consists of personal papers of Ruth Miller and materials relating to the operation of the Plymouth Congregational United Church of Christ in Charleston, South Carolina from 1989 to 2003. Materials chiefly include Sunday service bulletins; meeting minutes and reports for quarterly, annual, and Board of Trustee meetings; brief financial records; and programs and bulletins from other Charleston-area churches in South Carolina.

Old Slave Mart Museum Collection, 1929 - 1987 [AMN 1092]

The Old Slave Mart Museum in Charleston, South Carolina was founded in 1937 by Miriam B. Wilson as a museum of black slave crafts and related African artifacts. The museum was operated as a private, non-profit organization until her death in 1959. After Wilson's death, the Miriam B. Wilson Foundation was created to operate and manage the Old Slave Mart Museum.

The Old Slave Mart Museum Collection is largely comprised of photocopied material, consisting of meeting minutes from the Miriam B. Wilson Foundation and a history of the museum compiled for a grant application in 1985. It also contains audio cassettes tapes of Foundation meeting minutes, Foundation correspondence, the Old Slave Mart Museum collection inventories, and a 1929 postcard of the Old Slave Market.

Mosquito Beach Community Collection, 1953 - 1990 [AMN 9009v]

Mosquito Beach, an island and community located on Sol Legare Road in James Island, South Carolina was an important recreational site for African Americans during the early to mid-twentieth century when laws segregated beaches and other facilities.

The collection includes of a history of the area by Joe Chavis and Andrew Jackson Wilder, Jr.; plotted surveys of Sol Legare Road; correspondence with the South Carolina Department of Archives and History; various photocopied newspaper articles concerning Mosquito Beach; and group photograph on the boardwalk.

Owl's Whist Club Records, 1924 - 1989 [AMN 1091]

The Owl's Whist Club was founded by sixteen African American men on February 14, 1914 in Charleston, South Carolina. The purpose of the club was to provide these men an opportunity to play cards, socialize, and discuss social issues. The Owl's Whist Club remains a social organization for professional, African American men and is still active today.

The collection documents the history of the Owl's Whist Club of Charleston, South Carolina, from 1924-1989. Materials include administrative papers consisting of meeting minutes, constitution and by-laws, and governing rules; financial material made up of receipts, membership dues documentation, and transaction books. Other membership material includes membership rosters. In addition, the events conducted by the club can be traced through the programs and invitations over the course of thirty years.

Bill Saunders Papers, circa 1950 - 2004 [AMN 1100]

William ("Bill") Saunders, a community and Civil Rights activist in Charleston, South Carolina, was an organizer and lead negotiator of the Charleston Hospital Stike of 1969. In 1970, Saunder established the Committee on Better Racial Assurance (COBRA) to address race-related community problems and provide assistance to community members in need. He also operated the AM radio station WPAL from 1972-1998.

This collection includes materials relating to the personal and professional life of Bill Saunders. A very small portion of the papers contains personal materials such as biographical material, clippings, and correspondence. The majority of the collection documents Saunders' civic involvement from the late 1960s to 2004, with organizations such as the Committee on Better Racial Assurance (COBRA), Charleston Area Community Relations Committee, and Sea Island Comprehensive Health Care Corporation. A limited number of newspaper articles relate to Saunders' role in the 1969 Hospital Workers' Strike. The largest portion chronicles the establishment and early operation of COBRA, though later COBRA materials are included. Saunders' ten-year tenure as South Carolina Public Service Commissioner is also reflected, while a small amount of materials relate to Saunders' run for South Carolina Senate in 1980. A portion of the collection contains materials relating to WPAL radio station, including audiocassette tapes of various programs from 1990 to 2002. Also includes subject files containing articles and publications relating to many local issues.

Miriam DeCosta Seabrook and Herbert U. Seabrook Papers, 1882 - 1995 [AMN 1094]

Miriam DeCosta Seabrook (1896-1992) was an African-American educator born in Charleston, South Carolina. In 1923, she married Dr. Herbert U. Seabrook (1884-1941), an African American physician who practiced medicine in Charleston. They had one son, Herbert U. Seabrook, Jr., who also became a physician.

The collection includes correspondence, certificates, photographs, and other materials related to Miriam DeCosta Seabrook's education at Avery Institute and elsewhere, teaching career, and civic involvement; correspondence, speeches, and reports related to Dr. Herbert Seabrook, Sr.'s community and fraternal affiliations and to his medical career as a private practitioner and director of the Hospital and Training School for Nurses; and correspondence, memorabilia, and financial documents related to the marriage of Miriam and Herbert Seabrook. The collection contains correspondence, photographs, and other materials related to their son, Dr. Herbert Seabrook, Jr. Amerintha Alston Seabrook, Kenneth Seabrook, and other Seabrook family members are represented. The collection also contains scrapbooks and photographs of Miriam DeCosta Seabrook's relatives, the DeCosta family of Charleston, South Carolina.

Shaw School Collection [AMN 9002v]

The Shaw Memorial School, named after Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, opened its doors to African American youth in 1865. In 1884, the Shaw School was transferred to the Charleston City school board, and the property has since served various educational and community purposes.

This collection contains attendance certificates of former Shaw School students, 1882-1889; correspondence about the fate of the property in the late 20th century; and photocopies of newspaper clippings. Clippings discuss the use of the building for tornado refugees in 1938 and its designation on the National Historic Register.

Hicks and Steele Family Papers, 1882 - 1916 [AMN 9001v]

The Hicks family, originally from Savannah, Georgia and New York, are an African-American family in Charleston, South Carolina. John O. Hicks married Sadie Steele and had one son, J. Maurice Hicks, father of Janet Hicks. Sadie's family, the Steeles of Missouri, are decedents of the Randolph family who left Charleston, South Carolina in 1800 and relocated to Jersey City, New Jersey.

The collection includes materials related to Hicks and Steele family members, gathered by Janet Hicks. Materials include a marriage certificate for Robert A. Steele and Selina L. Spearing; a Steele family tree; and photographs of Sadie Steele Hicks, J. Maurice Hicks, and others.

Fred Stroble Papers [AMN 9006v]

Fred Stroble, a native of Charleston, was named the first African American deputy sheriff in Charleston in 1969. He was appointed Deputy United States Marshal in 1972, and served the United States District Court for 36 years.

The collection contains materials related to Fred Stroble's career in law enforcement. Includes newspaper clippings regarding appointments and various crimes cases, 1972; photocopies of correspondence regarding promotions and letters of recognition, 1962-1976; and photographs depicting Stroble in his uniform, as part of the City Police Department, and during an appointment ceremony.

Frank Sturcken Papers, 1951 - 1999 [AMN 9004v]

Francis "Frank" Sturcken, a 1951 graduate of the College of Charleston, received the Bingham Oratorical award for a controversial essay entitled "The Liquid South." This essay denounced segregation.

This collection contains materials related to Frank Sturcken's essay, "The Liquid South," including copies of the essay, a memoir, correspondence in reaction to the essay, and clippings. Much of the material contains personal annotations.

Joseph A. Towles Papers, circa 1920s - 2009 [AMN 1077]

African American anthropologist Joseph Allen Towles (1937-1988) met British anthropologist Colin Macmillan Turnbull (1924-1994) in 1959. The two exchanged marriage vows in 1960 and they lived together in an interracial, homosexual relationship until Towles' death in 1988. Towles and Turnbull spent various periods of time in Africa, conducting fieldwork on the Mbuti, Mbo, and Ik peoples. Turnbull authored The Forest People, The Mountain People, The Human Cycle, and Tibet. Turnbull succeeding in publishing Towles' work posthumously: Nkumbi Initiation and Asa: Myth of Origin of the Blood Brotherhood Among the Mbo of the Ituri Forest. Both Towles and Turnbull died from complications related to AIDS.

The collection contains eight different series of materials that document various aspects of the lives and careers, both separately and together, of Colin Turnbull and Joseph Towles. Anthropological research files focus mostly on their field work on the Mbuti and Mbo pygmies of the Congo area and the Ik of Uganda. Professional papers document their work in academic and museum settings. There are personal papers of their domestic life, fictional writings of Joseph Towles; a professional and personal photograph series; personal and professional films and audio tape, including materials documenting their African fieldwork; slides documenting African fieldwork and travels; and a series documenting the collection itself. Despite the fact the majority of materials document the life and achievements of Colin Turnbull, this collection, holding both Turnbull's and Joseph Towles' papers, is named for Joseph Towles at Turnbull's request. There is also a separate collection of African, religious and domestic artifacts collected by them.

Joseph A. Towles Artifact Collection, 1949 - 1992 [ART 1989.001]

African American anthropologist Joseph Allen Towles (1937-1988) met British anthropologist Colin Macmillan Turnbull (1924-1994) in 1959. The two exchanged marriage vows in 1960 and they lived together in an interracial, homosexual relationship until Towles' death in 1988. Towles and Turnbull spent various periods of time in Africa, conducting fieldwork on the Mbuti, Mbo, and Ik peoples. Turnbull authored The Forest People, The Mountain People, The Human Cycle, and Tibet. Turnbull succeeding in publishing Towles' work posthumously: Nkumbi Initiation and Asa: Myth of Origin of the Blood Brotherhood Among the Mbo of the Ituri Forest. Both Towles and Turnbull died from complications related to AIDS.

The Joseph A. Towles Artifact Collection contains artifacts documenting Colin Turnbull and Joseph Towles' professional lives and research interests, including materials relating to the Bira, Mangbetu, Mbo, Mbuti, and Pende peoples of Central Africa and the Dodoth, Ik, and Turkana peoples of East Africa, along with artifacts from other regions of Africa. The collection also reflects Turnbull's trips to India and contains artifacts acquired during Towles' and Turnbull's Tourism as Pilgrimage project.

Beulah White Papers, 1989 - 1995 [AMN 1099]

Beulah White is an African American woman from Georgetown, South Carolina. She worked as the executive director of Baskervill Ministries, a local organization that brought arts and education to its community in Pawleys Islands, South Carolina.

The collection includes material created by Beulah White as the executive director of Baskervill Ministries. The series include correspondence to and from Beulah White; subject files such as Gumbo Stew Festival, Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership and Performing Arts Seminar, Saturday Learning Academy, Winter Arts Camp, Adult Day Care Center, Camp Summer Step, and the Black Storytelling Festival; and photographs, scrapbooks and slides.

YWCA of Greater Charleston, Inc., Records, 1906 - 2007 [AMN 1078]

The Young Women's Christian Association of Greater Charleston, which originated in 1907, has served communities in Charleston and the lowcountry area of South Carolina for over a century. Currently, the YWCA of Greater Charleston, Inc., strives to provide programs and services for all people and holds a mission to eliminate racism and to empower women.

The collection documents the founding and history of the Young Women's Christian Association (YWCA) in Charleston, South Carolina as well as the administrative and operational functions of Charleston's YWCA for over a century. Includes by-laws and constitutions; financial documents such as purchase agreements and insurance documents; meeting minutes, agendas, and board correspondence; social event materials such as invitations; and memorabilia such as photographs, scrapbooks, programs, and newspaper clippings. Materials prior to 1969 chiefly relate to the Central YWCA's Coming Street branch, which originally served the African American communities of Charleston and the lowcounty. Post-1969 materials document the operations of the newly formed, integrated YWCA of Greater Charleston, Inc., the charter of which followed the disaffiliation of the white George Street branch. Of note are the 1972 copies of legal proceedings documenting the lawsuit between the National YWCA and the YWCA of Charleston, South Carolina, for infringement of trademarks and breach of contract after this Charleston branch disaffiliated itself from the national organization in 1969.