The new Robert Davidson Center was officially opened for the Edisto Natchez-Kusso Tribe on Saturday afternoon, October 5, following the tribe’s annual business meeting and homecoming. Former Chief Andy Spell and Chief John Glenn Creel cut the ribbon on the new building at 113 Tee Pee Lane, Ridgeville, S.C. and then opened the doors for tribal members to tour the facility.
The tribe received over $650,000 ear marked for the building project from Federal, state, and local funds. Former Chief Andy Spell, began coordinating efforts with the Dorchester County Council to obtain funds toward building the new center over five years ago. Chief Spell and Vice-Chief Lee Creel received funds from S.C. State Senator John W. Matthews, Jr. and S.C. House of Representatives Patsy Knight.
“There were many delays along the way, including Covid,” according to Chief John Glenn Creel. “But we are here today with this new building to honor our former Chief Robert Davidson, to have this space to archive our history and teach our youngsters about their culture. We will be having dance and drumming classes, classes to teach regalia making and our history classes.”
The building will also house the chief’s office and tribal council meeting space. The tribal archives and cultural preservation will also be housed at this location.
“The current building will now be used solely for the free clinic, “ Chief Creel said.
The name of the center honors the legacy of the late Chief Robert Davidson who served as chief from 1969-1982. During this time period, the tribe received state recognition and began the process for Federal recognition. Chief Davidson was also instrumental toward integrating native children into the public schools.
During the annual business meeting, Chief Creel announced plans to build a new Pow Wow arena on land that has been donated to the tribe. He also discussed rapid development in the community and the impact on the tribe.
“Do not sell our tribal land! Land values in our community are very high. If someone comes to you with an offer, discuss it with us first. It is important that we keep our land in the community,” Chief Creel said.
Plans for other purchases and donations of land for the tribe were outlined by the chief.“We have working partnerships with several organizations, the S.C. Open Land Trust, the Audubon Society, and The Donnelly Foundation,” the Chief told the tribe.
The community and the public is invited to attend installation of historical markers on October 26 at 12:00. The markers will be installed first on Ridge Road in Dorchester County and then in Colleton County near The Little Rock Church in Creeltown
“The historical markers are based on documented histories for Creeltown and Four Holes. There will also be a marker installed for the last Indian School in South Carolina before integrated schools,” the Chief said.
