Project Statement

The African Ancestors Memorial Garden at the International African American Museum (IAAM) in Charleston, SC, is an act of reconciliation and a significant testament to the African Diaspora's rich and profound history. This sacred space masterfully blends ecology, art, and history, offering a truth-based narrative that acts as an initial step towards reconciliation. The museum and gardens are situated at Gadsden's Wharf which served as the entry point for nearly half of the enslaved Africans brought to North America. The design of the gardens balances the necessity for truth in a specific moment in time while recognizing slavery as a moment in time along a much longer journey of the African diaspora.

Project Narrative

The African Ancestors Memorial Garden at the International African American Museum (IAAM), represents a deeply significant cultural and historical project. Located at Gadsden's Wharf in Charleston, South Carolina, this memorial garden covers a 2.5 acres area dedicated to the remembrance and honor of African ancestors who suffered through the transatlantic slave trade. This site, rich in history, serves as a poignant reminder of the hardships endured and the resilience of those who were forcibly brought to the Americas.

The project's inception in January 2016 was marked by an intensive collaborative and investigative process, involving a wide array of stakeholders from local artists and historians to the Mayor and museum leaders. This collaboration was foundational in ensuring the design deeply resonated with the community's historical and cultural context. These discussions and site visits were instrumental in shaping a design that seamlessly integrates the memorial into the landscape, acknowledging the site's sacred nature while fostering a space for reflection and dialogue.

The garden's design draws inspiration from the local Lowcountry landscape and the broader African diaspora, creating a tranquil environment that encourages contemplation. It features a series of sub-gardens, each celebrating the contributions of African Americans through artistry, craftsmanship, and labor. Central to the design is the Tide Tribute fountain, an expansive water feature that symbolizes the Atlantic Passage, representing the perilous journeys endured by enslaved Africans. This dynamic water feature reveals and conceals figures beneath the surface, reflecting the visibility and anonymity of those who made the voyage.

Materials and installation methods were carefully chosen for their durability, relevance, and ability to convey the intended narrative. The use of shimmering stainless steel, polished granite, and brick paving not only reflects the historical significance of the site but also ensures the memorial's longevity. These materials serve multiple symbolic purposes, from commemorating Gadsden's Wharf to marking the site of an old storehouse that confined enslaved individuals.

Environmental sustainability and the minimization of ecological impact were paramount throughout the design and construction phases. The project team employed sustainable landscaping techniques and worked diligently to preserve the site's archaeological integrity, ensuring the memorial's presence enhances rather than detracts from the low country landscape.

Collaboration with the client, the community, and other designers was a cornerstone of this project, embodying a model of inclusive and respectful design practice. Through ongoing dialogue and engagement, the team ensured that the garden not only met the museum's vision but also honored the memory and legacy of the African diaspora.

The African Ancestors Memorial Garden stands as a testament to the power of memory and the importance of acknowledging our collective history. It invites visitors to connect with the past on a deeply human level, fostering a greater understanding and respect for the heritage of the African diaspora. Through its thoughtful design and installations, the garden serves as a space for education, reflection, and healing, offering a profound experience that resonates with all who visit.