The Journey to Penn Center: Uncovering a Legacy
Right amidst us in Savannah, Georgia, is a place that’s a silent testament to resilience, the power of education, and social change. Ever heard of the Penn School? It’s no ordinary place but a beacon of history and lessons of the hard-fought freedom of a community.
The Penn School on St. Helena Island was established in 1862, making it the first school in the South designed to educate formerly enslaved children. Indeed, it’s a testament of strength and determination that has stood tall and significant for over 160 years.
What Makes Penn Special?
For those 160 years and counting, the Penn School, now known as the Penn Center, has been more than bricks and mortar; it has been a pillar to the island community and beyond, imparting education and values, keeping a vital part of history alive.
Researchers and historians have had the commendable task of diving into the depth of Penn’s history, and oh, what a rich history it has. They’ve huddled over countless documents, photos, archival material, and even conducted personal interviews to learn more about this iconic establishment.
Keeping the Legacy Alive
Different parts of its history are etched in various places – Penn School Papers in the Southern Historical Collection, the Bob Fitch photography archive, the Bates College Library of Congress, and the American Folklife Center.
These efforts to keep the school’s legacy alive should be thanked, especially individuals like Dr. Robert Adams, Queen Quet, Gardenia Simmons-White, Dr. Marie Gibbs, Dr. Emory Campbell, Victoria Smalls, and the McIntosh County Shouters.
The Book to Know More
Further insights are housed in the book “Penn Center: A History Preserved” by Orville Vernon Burton with Wilbur Cross. It provides an in-depth account of Penn Center’s history and evolution, serving as a valuable resource for those fascinated by historical narratives and the South’s history.
The Journey Continues…
With all the diligent and persistent efforts to keep the legacy of the Penn Center alive, decades down the line, its story and influence remain resilient and inspiring.
As former enslaved children’s legacy continues to exist in the heart of the American South, Penn Center’s legacy is a reminder that we still have countless stories to uncover and countless lessons to learn from our nation’s history.
Catch The Learning
So, whether you are a resident of Savannah or just passing by, do make time to visit this iconic Penn Center, experience the legendary journey in person, and who knows, you might “catch the learning” and become a storyteller of this phenomenal legacy yourself.
