January’s planned opening of the International African American Museum in Charleston has been delayed “due to challenges regarding the building’s humidity and temperature controls,” according to a statement.
The public statement issued late Friday didn’t give a specific new time for the opening, expected on Jan. 21, 2023, but said the museum, city of Charleston and others were working to remedy problems so it could open in the first half of next year.
“Museums require extremely stringent humidity controls in order to display the most sensitive of items for extended periods of time,” the statement said. “This delay is necessary to ensure that the museum building achieves the conditions necessary to preserve and protect our most sensitive objects, artifacts and art. In the meantime, we are monitoring humidity controls, which are suitable for all objects currently installed.”
Talking points sent by president and CEO Tonya M. Matthews to IAAM board members said, “The museum will be ready to welcome visitors in the first half of 2023. Exact dates will be announced early in the new year. Between now and opening, our commitment to building and engaging with community will remain paramount. We will be doing monthly webinars hosted by the Center for Family History, and inviting the community to join us for storytelling and music in the gardens.
“Our primary goal remains shining a light on the untold stories of the African American journey, honoring how African American labor, resistance, and ingenuity has shaped our country and our world.”
The talking points added, “We have been planning vigorously for this opening and we regret this turn of events. However, the challenges at hand are not overnight fixes and we need the time to make things right.”
U.S. Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C. said Thursday that delaying the museum’s opening was being considered “because of some climate control issues.” At that time, the decision to move the opening from January to later in March had not been made.
“I don’t know if this is going to happen,” he told the City Paper. “When you have all these artifacts the climate control has to be [at the] top.”
Help keep the City Paper free.
No paywalls.
No subscription cost.
Free delivery at 800 locations.
Help support independent journalism by donating today.