A ribbon cutting for the newly completed Robert Davidson Center will take place on October 5 following the annual business meeting and homecoming for the Edisto Natchez-Kusso Tribe of South Carolina. State and local representatives are invited to attend from 11:00 to 2:00 at the headquarters building, 1125 Ridge Road, Ridgeville S.C.
Ceremonies will move to 113 Tee Pee Lane at 2:00 for the ribbon cutting on the new cultural center and long house for tribal affairs and activities. The center will house the tribe’s museum and archival records. 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.
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. Many delays were experienced during the planning and permitting periods and due to Covid.
Rev. Dr. John Glenn Creel donated time and equipment to demolish the original Community Center on the property to begin site preparation. The previous building was used by the tribe as office headquarters and for community services but was demolished due to structural problems with the foundation.
Chief John Glenn Creel said, “Our tribe is looking forward to opening the new center. Former Chief Andy Spell and Vice-chief Lee Creel kept this project going from its infancy. Our current Vice-chief, Donnie Creel, and our tribal council have worked diligently with me to see the project through to completion. We are very grateful to our county, state, and Federal elected officials who helped us make this dream come true. We hope everyone will join us for ribbon cutting.”
Homecoming will also feature elections for princesses and free Indian fry bread tacos.