Two Upstate museums are commemorating the 50th anniversary of school integration in Greenville County with special activities on Feb. 17.
The Upcountry History Museum, 540 Buncombe St., is partnering with the school district to host a free exhibit from 3-6 p.m. The exhibit includes “history markers” serving as oral historians and a documentary-style video. District- and school-level documents and memorabilia will be on display in addition to the museum’s existing civil rights and Black History Month exhibits.
“This is an opportunity for visitors who’ve never experienced the museum to bring their family for free,” said Beth Brotherton, communications director for Greenville County Schools. “It’s our hope that because schools are closed, parents can bring their children to learn more about this important time in our shared history.”
The Children’s Museum of the Upstate, 300 College St., will follow the exhibit with a one-night performance of “One Voice: A Black History Narrative” at 7 p.m.
Performed by local entertainer and emcee JDew, “One Voice” is a 180-year journey of the African-American story told through the voices of iconic figures in black history, according to a release.
JDew will play roles ranging from James Weldon Johnson, the writer of the “Negro National Anthem,” to former President Barack Obama, the release said.
He’ll be joined by Elaine Whittenberg Boyce, who played an integral role in desegregating Greenville’s classrooms as a student, the release said.
Tickets to the “One Voice” performance are $10 and include light refreshments.
Tickets are now available for purchase on Eventbrite.
