Clemson African-American History Museum

The vision of the Clemson Area African-American Museum is, "To be recognized as Upstate South Carolina’s leading museum and cultural-resource center dedicated to African American history and culture..."

The Clemson Area African-American Museum is a place of cultural gathering for community events, and an African-American resource for educational opportunities.

In 2002, the citizens of Clemson, South Carolina expressed the need to have a historical site dedicated to the accomplishments of local African-Americans. Their call was answered when the City of Clemson est. CAAAM. The Clemson Area African-American (CAAAM) museum is a museum that collects and displays the accomplishments of local African-Americans, this is done in a way that encourages intellectual discussion with the community about the past of Clemson S.C. Upon visiting the museum, visitors will note the museum offers varying exhibits and has different multicultural events throughout the year. The original name of this building was, Morrison Annex, and this building was home to the second African-American school "Calhoun Elementary School." This building was a primary education resource for black children growing up during segregation, specifically children who were about elementary aged. This school was the last school that was built for black students in Pickens County. After desegregation the name and use of the school, building changed, and in 1971 the building catered towards kindergarten and first-grade. Soon after, the Clemson Elementary School replaced the Calhoun Elementary School, and the City of Clemson took over the old building. The property was purchased by the then mayor at the time for $100,000.00. The building was officially chartered in 2002, and in 2007, the Morrison Annex became referred to as the Calhoun Bridge Center. The Calhoun Bridge Center, not only houses the Clemson Area African American Museum, it also houses the Clemson Child Development Center and the Arts Center of Clemson. The CAAAM exists to research, collect, preserve and interpret for public enrichment the history, art and culture of African Americans. The museum contains objects of art, historical artifacts and memorabilia other reference materials available for limited public use.

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214 Butler St, Clemson, SC 29631