The Oldest African Village In America Is Right Here In South Carolina And It's Amazing
×
Robin Jarvis
Author
Just off Highway 17 in a sleepy part of Beaufort County, South Carolina there lies an African village whose roots trace back to Nigeria.
Founded in 1970, the Kingdom of Oyotunji is based on the culture of the Yoruba and Dahomey tribes of West Africa.
And the village comes complete with all the usual amenities you would expect a Kingdom to offer, including a Temple and a shrine. The Olukun Shrine is shown here.
Advertisement
Oyotunji African Village is truly one of its kind in America. It's the only African Village with a King.
Advertisement
Not unlike American villages, Oyotunji African Village has many of the amenities of other established communities in America.
There's the Trader's Bazaar.
Related Stories
17 Years Ago, South Carolina Was Invaded… And It’s About To Happen Again
The Story Behind This Historic South Carolina Fort Will Fascinate You
The Incredible Moment When South Carolina Will Go Dark That Will Go Down In History
A school, a temple...
Advertisement
...and a welcome center.
And for anywhere from $30 - $180 a night, you can even stay in the Oyotunji African Lodge.
Oyotunji's mission has always been to educate and preserve African culture in the United States. And they do a fine job. You can attend any one of their annual festivals (see this link for the 2017 Festival Schedule) and you'll feel like you're actually in another country.
Advertisement
See more of Oyotunji African Village in this YouTube video from SouthCarolinaETV.
Oyotunji African Village is located at 56 Bryant Ln, Sheldon, SC 29941. The village has an open door policy, and groups can schedule a visit through their website. Learn more about festivals and events at Oyotunji on their Facebook page.
Ever wonder where to find the best steak in the Palmetto State? These 15 Mouthwatering Steakhouses In South Carolina Are A Carnivore’s Dream.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.