How to Celebrate Black History Month in Camden, SC
Arts, Heritage & Stories That Shaped Our Community
Black history is American history, and in Camden, it’s a story deeply rooted in faith, creativity, resilience, and culture. Each year, our community comes together to honor the contributions of African Americans through art, music, storytelling, and shared traditions. From late January through February, Camden offers meaningful opportunities to reflect, learn, and celebrate Black History Month.
Artists in the Sanctuary
Camden Second Presbyterian Church
January 25 | 3 – 5 pm **POSTPONED TO FEBRUARY 22 DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER**
Black History Month begins early in Camden with Artists in the Sanctuary, a powerful celebration of African American artists and performers. Through visual art, music, poetry, liturgical dancing and other performances, Artists in the Sanctuary sets a reflective and inspiring tone for the month ahead while honoring the role churches have long played in nurturing Black artistry.
*This event has been postponed due to the impending Winter Storm Fern – the new date will be Sunday, February 22*
“A Walk Through History – Milestones in Economics + Education: 1867 – 1927” Exhibit Opening
African American Cultural Center
January 30, 1 – 5 pm + January 31, 11am – 3:30 pm
Discover a visual representation of historical milestones of African American citizens in Camden between 1867 and 1927 at this new and exciting exhibit housed at the African American Cultural Center. Artifacts, photos and narratives tell the story of progress in business and education in South Carolina.
Gospel Fest & Heritage Tea Tribute
Arts Center of Kershaw County
February 7 | 6 – 8 pm
The Arts Center of Kershaw County and the Multi-Cultural committee are proud to bring back Gospel Fest! Come celebrate gospel music and unity in the Arts Center’s Wood Auditorium. Gospel Fest will showcase performances by local choirs and artists and features diverse gospel styles and encourages audience participation, fostering a spirit of togetherness through music. Expect powerful vocals, joyful praise, and moments of reflection that unite audiences across generations. Tickets can be purchased here.
Black Heroes of the Revolutionary War Lectures
Historic Camden Foundation
February 14, 21 & 28 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm & 1:30 – 2:00 pm
This Historic Camden Foundation lecture explores the African American experience during the American Revolutionary War (1775–1783), examining the critical roles enslaved and free Black individuals played when they aligned with the French, British, or Patriot causes. From soldiers and sailors to laborers, guides, and spies, the lecture highlights the complex choices African Americans made in pursuit of freedom and survival. Through the stories of figures such as Crispus Attucks, Prince Whipple, Thomas Carney, Boston King, and Bonds Conway, the lectures offer a deeper, more inclusive understanding of the Revolutionary era and the often-overlooked contributions of Black Americans to the nation’s founding.
“Blue, Red & Black” Lunch & Learn: African Americans and the Revolutionary War
Revolutionary War Visitor Center
February 17 | 12 – 2 pm
Black history is an essential part of Camden’s Revolutionary War narrative. The Revolutionary War Visitor Center’s “Blue, Red & Black” event explores the experiences and perspectives of African Americans during the Revolutionary era—both enslaved and free. Through interpretation and dialogue, this program highlights stories often left untold, offering visitors a more complete and nuanced understanding of the fight for independence and black soldiers’ place in it. Reserve your spot here.
Experience Black History Month in Camden
From sacred art and gospel music to lectures, tea traditions, and Revolutionary War storytelling, Camden’s Black History Month events invite residents and visitors alike to listen, learn, and celebrate together. We hope you’ll make plans now to attend one—or all—of these programs and experience the stories that continue to shape our community.
In Camden, history lives on—and Black History Month offers a powerful reminder of the voices and stories that helped shape it.