News Summary

The Black Graniteville Project aims to preserve the history of the Black Graniteville community through oral histories and collaborative efforts. Led by Daniel Lloyd Jr. and supported by Professor Heather Peterson, the project collects untold stories and seeks to publish a resource that honors the contributions of Black residents in Graniteville. This initiative highlights the community’s resilience and rich cultural heritage, ensuring that its legacy is acknowledged for future generations.

Aiken Community Joins Forces to Celebrate Black Graniteville’s Heritage

In the heart of Aiken, an exciting initiative is underway aimed at preserving the rich history of the Black Graniteville community. The Black Graniteville Project was brought to light during the latest installment of the “Aiken in the Alley” lecture series on April 17. Esteemed USC Aiken history professor, Dr. Heather Peterson, took center stage to illuminate the audience about this significant endeavor while the project’s founder, Daniel Lloyd Jr., remained in the hospital but was steadfastly represented by his wife, Brenda Holland Lloyd.

The Roots of the Project

Born and raised in Graniteville, Daniel Lloyd Jr. has deep connections to the community. His journey began at Freedman Elementary School, where he attended until the fourth grade before being bused for his education in Aiken. After graduating from Schofield High School in 1967, he pursued higher education at Benedict College, receiving a degree in history and political science in 1971. It was during these formative years that he recognized a narrative worth sharing—one that reflects the experiences of the Black community in Graniteville, from everyday stories to significant historical milestones.

Bringing History to Life

The Black Graniteville Project is all about documenting the untold stories that paint a picture of life in this vibrant community. Professor Peterson emphasized how the histories of Black Graniteville have often been overshadowed or overlooked, and this project aims to shine a light on these vital narratives. One of the key elements has been the collection of oral histories, where local residents share their experiences, memories, and insights about their lives.

USC Aiken students are actively involved in this project, working on transcribing Lloyd’s interviews and creating informational posters that cover topics like local history and education. This collaborative project is not only about preserving these stories but also aims to culminate in the possibility of publishing a book that could serve as a critical resource for those interested in understanding the rich tapestry of Graniteville’s past.

A Brief History of Graniteville

Graniteville was established by William Gregg, and after the Civil War, it became a home for emancipated African-Americans who took on various roles, from laundresses to farmhands. The founding of the Grand United Order of the People’s Charitable Aid in 1912 highlighted the community’s resilience, providing financial support to its members in their time of need.

The community has always been a bastion of support, seen in its churches—including the African-Methodist-Episcopal Church, Bethlehem Baptist Church, and Valley Fair Baptist Church—where residents gathered for worship and fellowship. Education was made accessible for the Black community for the first time with the establishment of Freedman’s School in 1928, marking a moment of pride and hope for many families.

Resilience Amid Challenges

By the 1940s, Black residents began finding employment in textile mills, though they faced the harsh reality of segregated lunch facilities. Despite the challenges, the Black community thrived alongside the construction of the Jefferson Davis Highway in 1952, which opened up new business opportunities. The local baseball scene also flourished during this time, with notable players like George Dunbar making their mark alongside the likes of Jackie Robinson and Willie Mays.

The Mountain Laurel Lodge, a significant destination for Black travelers during segregation, was featured in The Negro Motorist Green Book, providing essential accommodations. The Aiken County Recreation Center, built in 1962, further enriched community life, offering spaces for gatherings and events that brought residents together.

Educational Opportunities for Future Generations

With the integration of Aiken County Schools in the early 1970s, a new chapter began for the community, featuring pioneers like Louisiana Sanders, who became one of the first Black students at Leavelle McCampbell High School. Brenda Holland Lloyd also made history, becoming one of the first Black teachers and later a guidance counselor, serving the community until her retirement in 2002.

Under the guidance of Dr. Peterson and driven by the passion of the Lloyds, the Black Graniteville Project is more than just a historical record—it’s a vital step in acknowledging and honoring the contributions of the Black community in Graniteville. Together, they are ensuring that these stories will not be forgotten and that future historians and students have the tools to continue this crucial work.

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