The Charleston Area Branch of ASALH welcomes community submissions for our Community Events Calendar, a space dedicated to sharing programs, gatherings, and initiatives that highlight African American history, culture, and education. Whether you’re organizing a lecture, cultural festival, book talk, or historical commemoration, we invite you to submit your event for consideration. Our goal is to provide a central hub where community members can stay informed and engaged with meaningful events throughout Charleston and surrounding areas. All submissions will be reviewed for alignment with ASALH’s mission before being added to the calendar. Thank you for helping us connect, educate, and celebrate African American heritage together!
- This event has passed.
The Charleston Area Branch ASALH Discussion: Women & Charleston Business, African American Antique Pioneer, Diana McCall Brown @ Cynthia Hurd Library – March 22

The Charleston Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) invites you to a special panel discussion celebrating the legacy of Dianna McCall Brown (1860–1949), Charleston’s first woman of color to enter the city’s antique trade. This event reflects ASALH’s Black History 2025 theme, African Americans and Labor, celebrating the contributions of Black women in shaping Charleston’s history and business community.
Born into a locally prominent African American family, Dianna McCall Brown established herself as a successful entrepreneur in Charleston during the early 20th century. She operated her antique shop at 62 Queen Street while navigating the societal challenges of her time, building a vast business network that extended across the United States. Brown’s business acumen earned her recognition among both Black and White Charlestonians, leaving a mark on the city’s history. Her family residence was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2020.
This exciting event will include a dialogue about women in business in Charleston, past and present, drawing inspiration from the extraordinary achievements of Dianna McCall Brown.
The panel will feature Dr. Maxine Smith, author of The Midnight Mayor of Charleston, who will share insights into Black Charleston’s commercial district before integration, and Dr. Barbara Dillgard, representing The Black Wall Street Magazine of Charleston, who will explore Greater Charleston’s landmarks and their historical significance.
📅 Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, March 22nd, 2025
- Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
- Location: Hurd/St. Andrews Library – 1735 N Woodmere Dr. Charleston, SC 29407
Join us for this fascinating dialogue as we honor Charleston’s pioneering women and reflect on their legacies. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Discover more from Charleston Area Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
SUBMIT AN EVENT BELOW
