Frankly Charleston Black History Tours

African American History Tours in Charleston

Frankly Charleston Black History Tours is a guided tour company based in Charleston, South Carolina, focused on the history of the city's African and African American population. Its approach is built around the idea that Charleston, the gateway to African American history in North America, has two histories and that most visitors only know one. The company presents itself as an alternative to conventional tours that pass through the cobblestone streets and colorful houses of the historic district, to show who built them.

The Guide: Franklin Williams

The person leading the tours is Franklin Williams, who has been involved in the tourism industry since 2001. He founded Frankly Charleston in 2015 and, according to the company's information, has since dedicated himself to researching the lives of enslaved people in colonial Charleston, cross-checking data and discarding inaccuracies to offer his visitors what he describes as verified facts. The company states it has been mentioned in media outlets such as Condé Nast, Forbes, Fodors Travel, and The Miami Herald, as well as having a presence in local media.

Available Experiences

The company's offerings are organized into two main formats:

• Ride + Walk Experience: the signature tour, available in the morning and afternoon, combines van transportation and a walking tour. It focuses on the contributions of Africans in the 17th and 18th centuries in Charleston. The stated duration is two to three hours.
• Group & Private Tours: tours aimed at schools, families, and corporate groups, with the possibility of customization. The company offers an inquiry form for this type of experience.

Starting Point and Operations

Tours depart from the Charleston Welcome Center, located at 375 Meeting Street. The company states it operates with more than ten years of experience in the industry and that its tours have received a five-star rating on TripAdvisor. The published business hours are Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Audience and Approach

The offering is aimed at both individual visitors and organized groups, with particular attention to the educational and family sectors. The company's approach combines historical storytelling with education, and its message is built on the idea that Charleston's African American history has remained hidden in plain sight.

Location and Contact

Charleston Welcome Center, 375 Meeting Street · Phone: (843) 834-2003 · Email: franklycharleston@yahoo.com