The Gullah people forged a way of life rich in resilience and tradition. Their language, cuisine, music, craftsmanship, and art became vibrant expressions of their enduring spirit. Born from adversity and sustained through unwavering perseverance, Gullah culture has not only survived the test of time—it continues to thrive, a testament to strength, heritage, and community.
Museums & Cultural Tours
Operating under the jurisdiction of the Planning Commission and with considerable public input, the Gullah-Geechee Land and Cultural Preservation Task Force identifies and assists in the preservation of The Gullah-Geechee culture for the purpose of detecting and resolving issues specific to its community, including, without limitation, heirs property, taxes and land use, economic and sustainability issues for an improved quality of life, and education of the community.
A vibrant three-day festival usually held in November at Penn Center (formerly Penn School) on St. Helena Island, SC, Heritage Days is a time-honored tradition celebrating the deep roots and resilient culture of the Gullah‑Geechee community in America’s Lowcountry.
First established in 1981 as a successor to the original “Harvest Days,” this beloved festival honors both Penn Center’s legacy and the enduring heritage of the Sea Islands. Attendance typically ranges from 5,000 to 8,000 visitors each year, who gather to experience rich folklore, art, and cultural expression.
Join the Gullah Geechee Historic Neighborhoods CDC for our Monthly Board Meeting. Share insights during the public comment period and help shape our efforts to preserve Gullah Geechee heritage, advance affordable housing, and strengthen local entrepreneurship.
What could be better than the popular soul food and entertainment hot spot of Hilton Head Island, Ruby Lee's? We offer more of what patrons have come to love and expect in the past few years: delicious Southern cooking and a comfortable yet stimulating atmosphere that offers the perfect way to enjoy sports or outstanding blues, jazz, and soul from local and regional artists.
The Husband and Wife team of Melly Mel’s are dishing up some good eats. Born from a true passion for cooking, their Food Truck is a Community staple serving the Lowcountry area for over a decade. They also provide custom menus for any special occasion or gathering.
Experience a powerful story of resilience, self-determination, and legacy. At Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park, you’ll walk the sacred ground of the first self-governed town of formerly enslaved people in the United States.
The Gullah Museum of Hilton Head Island is a nonprofit museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the Gullah heritage and culture of the Lowcountry. The museum was established in 2003 by Hilton Head native Louise Miller Cohen and is located on land purchased by her ancestors after the Civil War.
Gullah Heritage Trail Tours provide a glimpse into the island’s culture before the development of resorts on Hilton Head Island. The bus tours are led by native islanders of Gullah descent who share their personal experiences and family history.
Binya Boutique is a Gullah and Lowcountry-focused gift shop on Hilton Head Island. The name "Binya" is a Gullah word that means "been here" and is used to affectionately describe native islanders or those with ancestral ties to the island. The shop sells gifts and local items while celebrating and educating people about Gullah heritage.
Gullah T's N' Tings is a Black-owned lifestyle brand that sells apparel and other items inspired by and celebrating Gullah culture. The company was founded by Sonya Jovan Grant, a direct descendant of the Gullah people.
by Thomas C. Barnwell Jr. (Author), Emory Shaw Campbell (Author), Carolyn Grant (Author)
