Honoring Our History

We are committed to preserving and celebrating the rich history of Black communities in Greenville and looking toward the future. The McClaren Cultural and Historical Literacy Center is at the heart of this mission to offer a space to educate, inspire, and honor the contributions of Black citizens who have shaped the Upstate’s growth and development. This Center is a place to reflect on our past while empowering future generations with cultural awareness and a deep sense of history. 

The McClaren Cultural and Historical Literacy Center will be located on the lower floor of the McClaren Medical Shelter. Founded by Dr. Edward E. McClaren in 1949, the McClaren Medical Shelter was Greenville’s first black-owned and operated clinic. Dr. McClaren provided healthcare services to Black residents during a time when segregation limited access. Today, we honor Dr. McClaren’s legacy by transforming this historic space into a place for cultural learning and literacy. 

The Center will feature multimedia displays highlighting the contributions of Black individuals to the economic, cultural, and social development of the Upstate. From interactive exhibits to historical archives, the McClaren Cultural and Historical Literacy Center will serve as a resource for the community so that future generations can understand and appreciate the stories that have shaped our community. 

More than just a museum or archive, The Center is designed to be an active learning space. It will offer educational programming highlighting key moments in local Black history through partnerships with local schools, nonprofits, and community organizations. Tours of significant Black historical sites in Greenville, led by Kendra Williams in collaboration with Visit Greenville SC, are already part of the programming, providing Greenville natives and visitors with a deeper understanding of the city’s heritage. 

These educational efforts inspire young people to take pride in their history while preparing them to lead the community forward. The Center will also host workshops, lectures, and community discussions, creating a reflection, conversation, and growth space. 

As part of the larger McClaren Institute for Health & Quality of Life, the Cultural and Historical Literacy Center will share space with various health and wellness programs to address disparities in healthcare access for Black and underserved communities. This collaboration creates a dynamic space where cultural education and community health intersect. The lower floor will also include meeting spaces and offices available for nonprofits and community groups. 

We invite you to join us on this journey as we honor Dr. McClaren’s legacy and the Black citizens who have contributed to Greenville’s growth. The McClaren Cultural and Historical Literacy Center is part of our commitment to building a more inclusive future. For more information about our programs and how you can get involved, visit the Urban League of the Upstate.