The Avery Research Center: A Legacy of Education and Heritage in Charleston
Celebrating 160 Years of Impact
The Avery Research Center in Charleston, South Carolina, marks a significant milestone: 160 years since the establishment of the Avery Normal Institute. Originally founded as a school for formerly enslaved African Americans, the institute continues to serve as a vital educational hub, fostering connections to heritage and history.
A Repository of Lowcountry History
The Avery Research Center is not just an archive; it is a welcoming space filled with extensive collections that document Lowcountry history. Some of these archives date back to the 18th century, providing a window into the past for researchers and visitors alike. Each individual who walks through its doors is greeted with the warm words of Daron Lee Calhoun II: “Whenever you come into the Avery, we’re always going to tell you welcome home. No matter who you are.”
This sentiment encapsulates the center’s mission: to help visitors connect with their roots and uncover their family histories.
Preserving Historical Significance
The building itself has a rich history, having originally functioned as a K-12 private school in the late 1860s. It played a crucial role in educating formerly enslaved children, preparing them for professional careers in a rapidly evolving society. Notable figures associated with the institute include W.E.B. DuBois, who visited multiple times, and Septima Clark, a celebrated alumna who graduated in 1916.
Today, the center preserves Clark’s handwritten papers along with a cherished book that bears a personal note from Langston Hughes. Physical remnants of the building’s history—like the pillars from 1868—are still visible, offering a tangible connection to the struggles and triumphs of those who came before.
A Gathering Place for Researchers
The Avery Research Center is not only a local treasure but attracts researchers from around the globe. For instance, German postdoctoral researcher Lara Roessig traveled specifically to Charleston to access the center’s vast collections. “The Avery Research Center has been really helpful. There’s tons of materials here. I’ve spent about three weeks and I have gone through a lot of collections,” Roessig shared.
Visitors to the center often describe their experiences as transformative. Many delve into yearbooks and archival materials in search of family connections, leading to emotional revelations as they uncover relatives documented within the collections.
A Philosophy of Sharing History
The philosophy of the Avery Research Center, as expressed by Calhoun, emphasizes openness rather than restriction: “We are not gatekeepers of history, but we are here to share the history with the world.” This commitment to accessibility invites individuals from various backgrounds to explore their heritage without barriers.
Upcoming Events: Celebrating Community
In addition to its educational and research roles, the Avery Research Center serves as a community hub. Excitingly, the center is set to host the 2025 Avery Family Reunion on Sunday, Nov. 16, at Burke High School. This event promises to celebrate shared history through live music, traditional storytelling, and local vendors showcasing authentic cuisine.
The Avery Research Center continues to be a beacon of hope, education, and community connection, honoring the legacy of those who have walked its halls while encouraging future generations to connect with their past.