Gullah

The Gullah culture has a complex history and language with direct links to West Africa that survived slavery and continues to thrive on the Sea Islands of South Carolina and Georgia.

In the past, people have described the Gullah culture as quaint and the language as unintelligible. A closer look reveals a complex history and language with direct links to West Africa that survived slavery and thrived on the Sea Islands of South Carolina and Georgia. The Gullah experience has many variables that make it unique to each family and community. 

I Am Gullah Geechee

Video

In this video, Nina shares personal accounts of her own life as a Gullah Geechee woman who grew up in Charleston, SC. Students who are not familiar with the Gullah Geechee Culture can experience...
Show Don't Tell

Video

In this video, Nina uses various forms of kinesthetic/bodily movement to emphasize the history of The Gullah Geechee Culture & the Gullah Geechee Heritage Act. This activity will help students...
The Gullah Culture Unveiled

Video

In this video Nina uses dance as a form of teaching and learning for students and teachers to understand the origins of the Gullah Geechee Culture of South Carolina.
Gullah | From the Sky

Video

When you look at the scenery of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, it’s hard not to admire its beauty and wildlife. Also native to this region, is one of South Carolina's most unique group of people... the...
Freedom Comin’: A Gullah Kinfolk Wish
Episode 2

Video

There is talk of war in December, 1860. The southern states threaten to secede if Abraham Lincoln is elected President. Lincoln’s election results in the formation of the southern Confederate States...
Freedom Comin’: A Gullah Kinfolk Wish
Episode 1

Video

Host Aunt Pearlie Sue has a story to tell: Christmas Eve of December 1860 also happens to be the eve of the American Civil War. The life of slavery weighs heavily on the hearts of those who work on...
3D VR - Penn Center: Brick Church | Let's Go!
3D VR - Penn Center: Brick Church | Let's Go!

Interactive

Penn Center is one of the most significant African American historical and cultural institutions in existence today. The historic campus is located on St. Helena Island, one of the most beautiful and...
Gullah Roots
Episode 9

Video

The Penn Center, formerly the Penn School, was founded on Saint Helena Island, South Carolina, by Northern abolitionist missionaries. The school was created to educate freed people, and was one of the...
Gullah Roots
Episode 8

Video

A circular dance called the "Ring Shout" was a part of Gullah-Geechee Christian worship services for many years.