On the tour , we will describe some experiences of the upward mobility of a race of people who were brought in from another country in captivity. They arrived on these shores with no freedom, no understanding of the language, forbidden to do almost anything, no education and limited movement. But over the years they have obtained a small portion of the American Dream and are still working to experience the full sense of what having the American Dream truly means. Laws were in place against them and they were forced into second-class citizenship.
GULLAH/GEECHEE CULTURAL HERITAGE CORRIDOR—Wilmington (New Hanover County) has been included into this corridor that stretches from Southeastern North Carolina to Northeastern Florida and it describes a cultural that developed within enslaved coastal community. It is a blend of many other cultures, especially those from the West Coast of Africa. Many of these enslaved people were brought to this area because of their familiarity with the cultivation of rice. This culture includes, but is not limited to, language patterns, food ways, folklore, religion and burial practices.
CAMPBELL SQUARE: A local historian Bill Reaves stated that Campbell Square could be considered the Capital of the City’s Black community because the Board of Alderman passed an ordinance in 1866 dedicating the block to the use of the Black population.
· Originally used as a Quaker Cemetery, within the square, it was later used as a Black burial ground.
· After the passage of the ordinance, churches and schools dominated this Square.
· It became the focal point of early Black advancement in the City.
RELIGION: Played a fundamental role in the lives of African Americans throughout the years. Living in slavery was not a bed of roses. Slaves regularly experienced hardships and abuse. They used religion, faith and spiritual hymns as an outlet and a means to express themselves. In this way, they had hope of a brighter future and the strength to endure the harsh treatment. As the years progressed, slaves begin to branch off and start their own churches.
SEABREEZE: Now that we have discussed some of the sad aspects and traditions. Let’s talk about the happier social aspects of the Black community
· We would like to start with the “Monte Carlo” by the Sea, known as “Seabreeze”, an exclusive Black owned beach resort
· Blacks owned a substantial amount of waterfront property on Carolina and Wrightsville Beaches
· Seabreeze is located about five minutes from Carolina Beach
· Developed in 1920 by the Freeman family
· Following the Civil War, the Black community looked toward the ocean and nearby sounds for boating, fishing, bathing, dancing and tasty seafood. Or, they could enjoy the clear cool waters in their own private cottages or exclusive hotels by the seaside
· In 1938, about 6,000 visitors arrived at Seabreeze by trucks, cars and buses to observe Independence Day
· There were several boardwalks built over the water where visitors could dance the day and night away. The resort also featured a small amusement park, dance halls and a photographer’s shops
· There were cafes, which served delicious clam fritters that only cost a nickel
· Due to integration and economic development, their ownership has dwindled tremendously
· Storms and hurricanes damaged the houses and businesses on the beach
· By the later 1970’s, Seabreeze was a shadow of its former self.