Preserving Gullah Culture on St. Helena Island
St. Helena Island, S.C. — Minnie “Gracie” Gadson, 78, passionately sings a spiritual that connects her to her ancestors. This Gullah song reflects the rich heritage of those who labored on South Carolina’s cotton and rice plantations. Gadson is part of a dedicated group of artists and scholars committed to preserving Gullah Geechee culture for future generations.
Gadson, a member of the “Voices of Gullah” group, shares her love of singing in ‘praise houses’ — historical wooden structures that served as places of worship for both enslaved and free Black Americans. Today, she travels across the U.S. to spread the Gullah message and culture.
Anita Singleton-Prather, a prominent figure in this movement, emphasizes the cultural significance of Gullah, stating it blends various influences that emerged during the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Her recent performances have highlighted Gullah’s contributions to the American Revolution, showcasing the vital roles of rice farming and indigo dyeing.
St. Helena Island is home to over 5,000 descendants of enslaved workers. Here, respect for tradition and cultural identity remains strong. Community members actively strive to instill this respect in the younger generations.
As a recognized authority in Gullah culture, Eric Crawford, author of “Gullah Spirituals: The Sound of Freedom and Protest in the South Carolina Sea Islands,” explains how learning about Gullah connects individuals to their roots. He notes iconic songs, like “Kumbaya,” also originated from this vibrant culture.
With age, the singers might not perform ring shouts anymore, but their energy remains alive in church gatherings where they clap, stomp, and sway to timeless spirituals. “These singers exemplify how our ancestors expressed their culture,” says Crawford, highlighting their authenticity.
The “Voices of Gullah” began touring in 2014 and have spread their art not only in the U.S. but also in countries like Belize and Mexico. Team members include Gadson and other seasoned performers, all striving to share their heritage. They hope to inspire younger generations to carry on this important cultural legacy.
Emory Campbell, founder of Gullah Heritage Trails Tours, stresses the need for public awareness of the Gullah community on Hilton Head Island. He believes knowing one’s identity is crucial for belonging and navigating life’s challenges. Marlena Smalls, an actress and singer, echoes this view, emphasizing her mission to foster cultural knowledge among the youth.
The future of Gullah culture depends heavily on ongoing efforts to engage younger people and secure resources for cultural preservation. Projects like “Gullah Geechee Futures” strive to anchor the youth in their heritage by allowing them to explore historical sites and experience traditional Gullah practices.
In a world changing rapidly, the voices of Gullah remain steadfast, embodying resilience and a deep-rooted commitment to cultural identity.
