Discover the Black Heritage Trail of Upstate South Carolina
Opening in 2026, the Black Heritage Trail is a project funded by a grant from the Mellon Foundation's Monuments Project to uncover, preserve, and share stories of local Black communities in Upstate South Carolina over the past three centuries.
Uncover local history
hidden in plain sight
Spanning Clemson University's campus and the counties of Oconee and Pickens, the BHT is a powerful and immersive experience that connects visitors with history through outdoor walking paths, historical sites, interpretive signage, commissioned artwork and an interactive website.
Explore the trail
Covering a broad time frame from the 1700s to present day, the Black Heritage Trail will feature a range of sites, including churches, schools, neighborhoods, historic buildings, cemeteries and cultural landmarks. The BHT aims to fill a crucial gap in the history of the Upstate by providing a more complete and inclusive understanding of the region's past and present.
Behind the Design
The Seneca, Little, and Keowee Rivers are represented in the BHT logo, emphasizing the importance of these waterways to Black history in the northwesternmost portion of Upstate South Carolina. The vibrant colors draw inspiration from the Divine Nine of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), which comprises historically African American sororities and fraternities, representing strength and vitality.
Discover, preserve, and honor our history
The Black Heritage Trail is an educational and cultural initiative that emerged from efforts by partners from Clemson University and the Cities of Clemson and Seneca.
In Partnership With
Contact Us
Have a question or want to get involved? Reach out to learn more about the Black Heritage Trail or to connect with our team.