St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition is a nonprofit organization with a mission to educate people about African American history here on Georgia’s largest populated barrier island; to preserve the remaining ancestral lands and homes; and to revitalize our Gullah Geechee heritage through tours, programs, and festivals throughout the seasons.
As St. Simons Island became increasingly popular to visitors and people seeking to live here in the mid-20th Century, three African American neighborhoods on the island were imperiled. Then and now, we experience development encroachment and the erasure of our quality of community for new subdivisions, and cemeteries ringed by golf courses and modern retreats.
SSAAHC is comprised of African American property owners and concerned citizens who care about preserving the heritage of the original African American communities on this island.
Since its formation in 2000 at the First African Baptist Church of St. Simons Island, the St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition rejoices in community gatherings and tours of our historic schoolhouse as a treasured community center and meeting place for Gullah Geechee celebrations.
Events Calendar
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December
Voices that Shape Us
What happens when women use their voices to shape their communities? 🎤
They inspire change. They challenge expectations. They create legacies.
Join the St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition for VOICES THAT SHAPE US: Women on the Coast with Voice, Vision, Impact & Legacy.
Four women. Four unique perspectives. One powerful conversation.
This isn't just a panel discussion. It's an opportunity to listen, reflect, ask questions, and discover how our own voices can make a difference.
💬 Let's start the conversation now: What does it mean to be a woman whose voice makes an impact?
Share your thoughts in the comments!
📅 Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
📍 Historic Harrington School, St. Simons Island
🎟️ FREE and open to the public! -
June
Taste of Gullah
The Annual Taste of Gullah is back and better than ever! Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the flavors, culture, and living legacy of Gullah Geechee heritage, hosted by the St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition. - Read More
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July
Civil Rights
Segregation, Voting Rights, NAACP, Black Wall Street
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August
Preserving African
American HeritageBuildings, Family History, Cemeteries, Organizations, Success, Challenges
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September
Education
Schools, Teachers, Lessons Taught at Home
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June
Taste of Gullah
The Annual Taste of Gullah is back and better than ever! Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the flavors, culture, and living legacy of Gullah Geechee heritage, hosted by the St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition. - Read More
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July
Civil Rights
Segregation, Voting Rights, NAACP, Black Wall Street
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July 31st 1:00 PM - 11:00 PM and August 1st 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM
2026 Annual IGBO Worldwide Festival of Arts and Culture
Celebrate the rich traditions, music, dance, and heritage of the Igbo people at the 2026 Igbo Worldwide Festival of Arts and Culture. Join visitors from around the world for two days of cultural performances, community, and unity at Selden Park and Igbo Landing on St. Simons Island. - Read More
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August
Preserving African
American HeritageBuildings, Family History, Cemeteries, Organizations, Success, Challenges
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August 1st 1:00 PM
Celebration of Amy Lotson Roberts
Join us as we celebrate Amy's outstanding dedication and remarkable contributions to our community. - Read More
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September
Education
Schools, Teachers, Lessons Taught at Home
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October 15th
Education
25th Anniversary "Masquerade on the Marsh"
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Join us in our journey to revitalize
St. Simons Island’s African American heritage.