African American artisans -- South Carolina -- Charleston

Abstract Philip Simmons (b.1912-d.2009) was an African American blacksmith and artisan specializing in the craft of ironwork in Charleston, South Carolina. Working out of his shop and home on 30 1/2 Blake Street in Charleston, Simmons spent seventy-seven years crafting utilitarian and ornamental ironwork. His work is recognized within the state of South Carolina, nationally and internationally. This collection donated by the Philip Simmons Foundation, holds personal papers with photographs and...

Abstract Elijah Wineglass was born in Georgetown, S.C. on September 17, 1903 to Thomas and Carrie Lee Wineglass. He moved to Charleston in 1922. Having learned antique furniture refinishing at an early age, he also made furniture and was known as "The Furniture Doctor" for fifty years. He also taught this trade at the Shaw Center For Boys. Wineglass married Beatrice Lee with whom he had one child and adopted one other. He was a member of Greater St. Luke A.M.E. Church and served in a number of...