Pice: $35 per person
Private Groups: $280 for up to 10 people
Duration: 2 hours
Starting Location: 30-1/2 Blake Street. We meet on the sidewalk in front of the Philip Simmons House Museum across the street from Trident Technical College’s Palmer Campus.
The African-American History & Philip Simmons House Tour is an exploration of Charleston’s 350 year old African community. Our experience starts at the Philip Simmons House where one of the greatest African-American artists of the 20th century created a lifetime of beauty. Led by museum docents, witness the humble life of a great Charleston artisan.
We continue our experience by walking down America Street, the center of Charleston’s African-American community. Along the way, learn about and witness the trials and tribulations of the past and present.
We stop briefly at the edge of the African-American community to give a powerful visualization of class division that still exists in the city today.
We continue to walk through the East Side around Wragg Square. Learn about how free people of color came together to form flourishing communities and houses of worship. Learn how the Emanuel 9 Shooting brought the entire world together in the fight against racism.
Reviews
Shondra
“I’ve been to Charleston twice before and had never seen or heard the aspect of Charleston’s history and the community as experienced during the tour. Definitely recommend!”
Barbara
“This was a true history lesson that covered topics outside of Charleston but linked to its history. Stories of potential despair presented by my guide Larry with a sense of optimism that was really uplifting.”
Maria
“This is an absolute MUST for anyone visiting Charleston. I learned so much and was moved to tears several times. Larry is a wealth of knowledge, passion and empathy. HIGHLY recommended!”
Additional Information
Parking And Transportation Options
- Free parking is available on the right side of Blake Street across from the museum.
- Uber/Lyft/Taxi Services are available both downtown and in the surrounding areas.
- Public transportation from CARTA. You can find the best route using the Transit App.
Things to Note
- Bring a bottle of water with you and wear comfortable shoes for walking.
- We do stop for refreshments and restroom breaks as needed.
- $1 per ticket purchase is donated to the Halsey Gallery of Contemporary Art.
- $5 per ticket purchase is donated to the Philip Simmons House museum.
Included with Ticket Purchase
- Admission to the Halsey Gallery of Contemporary Art located at 161 Calhoun Street inside the College of Charleston CATO Arts Building.
- Admission to the Philip Simmons House museum located at 30-1/2 Blake Street. (Walk down the driveway and the museum is in the back.)
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