May 17 …

The Cecil Williams South Carolina Civil Rights Museum — located in Orangeburg, SC — officially opened to the public on May 17, 2019. That date was chosen to coincide with the 65th anniversary of the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education, which declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional.

The museum was founded by photographer and civil rights documentarian Cecil J. Williams, who transformed his former residence and photography studio into a space dedicated to preserving and sharing the state’s pivotal role in the civil rights movement. Initially, the museum occupied that 3,500-square-foot building on Lake Drive designed by Williams.

The museum showcases over 500 photographs and more than 200 artifacts that highlighted significant events such as the Orangeburg Massacre and the Briggs v. Elliott case. Williams’ extensive collection provided an intimate and comprehensive look at the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights era in South Carolina.

In June 2024, the museum began preparations to relocate to a new, larger facility in downtown Orangeburg, aiming to expand its capacity and reach. The new location, situated at the corner of Russell Street and Boulevard Street, is part of the Railroad Corner redevelopment project, strategically placed across from South Carolina State University and Claflin University. The expanded museum is expected to cover between 10,400 and 14,000 square feet, significantly increasing its exhibition space and allowing for a more immersive visitor experience.

The move to a larger venue reflects the museum’s growing prominence and the increasing interest in South Carolina’s civil rights history. By relocating to a more accessible and visible location, the museum aims to attract a broader audience, including students, educators, and tourists, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the state’s contributions to the national civil rights movement.

As of May 2025, the museum continues to operate in its original location while preparations for the new facility are underway. The anticipated opening of the expanded museum is set for the end of 2025, promising to offer an enriched experience that honors the legacy of those who fought for equality and justice in South Carolina.

For more information on visiting the Cecil Williams South Carolina Civil Rights Museum, including tour arrangements and updates on the new location, please visit the official website.