Exploring the Reclamation of Black Burial Sites

Charleston, South Carolina, is steeped in a rich yet complex history, particularly regarding the burial sites of Black and Gullah Geechee communities that have long been overlooked. Many of these sacred spaces, integral to understanding our shared heritage, have suffered neglect, erasing the stories and contributions of those who came before us.

This page aims to shine a light on the urgent need for the reclamation and preservation of these vital sites.

As we embark on this initiative, we invite you to explore the historical significance of these locations through compelling images and articles, including a detailed examination of the challenges they face. Join us in honoring and protecting these important pieces of our cultural legacy, and discover how you can support our efforts to ensure their preservation for future generations.

About this Map

The Mapping Charleston’s Black Burial Grounds Project is a community-led initiative to identify threatened gravesites in the City of Charleston, South Carolina. Made possible by funding from the National Park Service African American Civil Rights Grant Program, the digital map aims to increase public awareness of Black burial grounds to strengthen protections for these sacred spaces as Charleston grows and develops.