In addition to a grant from the Georgia Council for the Arts, Glynn Art Association’s Fall Festival just received a grant from Target for the Gullah-Geechee festival!
This festival will offer insight into the Gullah-Geechee history and culture. For over 250 years, this culture has remained intact–mainly due to the fact that air conditioning was not available to homeowners/individuals until 1929. With the advent of air conditioning in homes, people started migrating to the islands.
Over time, large homes, retail establishments, and luxury hotels have been constructed on these islands (from NC to northern FL), real estate taxes increased…thus forcing the Gullah Geechee to sell the land they were either given or purchased after the Civil War and move inland where real estate was less expensive.
The African American population on these islands has decreased dramatically. Today, there are very few African American/Gullah Geechee who reside on these islands and there is a very real possibility that this entire culture could be relegated to museums and history books if nothing is done about preserving it.
As the elders pass away, one by one, the Gullah Geechee become one less. Sadly, many of the younger generation have lost interest in maintaining the integrity of their heritage. Ultimately, this too contributes to the disintegration of the culture.
We need to keep this culture alive. Thanks to the generosity of Georgia Council for the Arts and to Target Corporation for supporting this festival. We are very appreciative!
Join us for this festival and learn about the history of coastal Georgia.
