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On Saturday, October 11, the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage invites you to explore that creative spark during our Monoprint Workshop with artist and educator Ian Welch.
Reserve your spot today.
In this hands-on session, Ian will guide you through the expressive art of monoprinting with gelli plates, a process that blends paint, pattern, and play.
You’ll experiment with layering, stenciling, and color mixing to create a collection of striking, one-of-a-kind prints. By the end, you’ll walk away with your own series of vibrant works and a newfound appreciation for this versatile printmaking technique.
No prior experience is required, just bring your curiosity and a willingness to get a little messy. All materials are provided, and class size is limited to ensure personalized instruction and plenty of time for creative exploration.
Saturday, October 11, 2025
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage, Ridgeland, SC
General Admission – $70
Heritage Member – $59.50 (15% discount)
Patron Member – $63 (10% discount)
Supporter Member – $66.50 (5% discount)
Please note: purchases are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another date.
Reserve your spot today and discover the joy of printmaking—where every pull of the plate reveals something unexpected and uniquely yours.
Questions? Contact us at 843-284-9227. We hope to see you at a workshop soon!
There’s something magical about turning tiny fragments into a radiant work of art. On Saturday, September 27, the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage invites you to experience that magic for yourself during our Glass Mosaics Workshop with acclaimed glass artist Pat Stone.
Reserve Here!
In this immersive, hands-on class, Pat will guide you through every step of the process. From safely cutting and shaping colorful glass to arranging intricate patterns and grouting your finished design. By the end of the workshop, you’ll walk away with your own dazzling mosaic suncatcher to brighten any space.
No prior experience is needed! Just bring your curiosity and a willingness to explore. All materials are included, and space is intentionally limited to ensure plenty of one-on-one guidance.
Details
Reserve your spot now and discover the joy of creating something truly one-of-a-kind. For questions, contact us at 843-284-9227. We look forward to welcoming you!
Unleash your creativity on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage with a special Caricature Workshop led by artist and professor Ian Welch.
Unleash your creativity on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage with a special Caricature Workshop led by artist and professor Ian Welch. REGISTER HERE!
Using brush-tip markers and pens, Ian Welch will guide you step-by-step through this unique portrait drawing technique. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your artistic skills, this workshop welcomes all levels.
Located in downtown Ridgeland, SC, the Morris Center offers the perfect backdrop for an inspiring afternoon of creativity and connection.
Please note that purchases are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to a later class date.
Spaces are limited, so reserve your spot today. To register or for more information, please click here or contact us at 843-284-9227. We look forward to welcoming you!
Ridgeland, SC — The Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage announces a national search for its next Executive Director following Tamara Herring's upcoming departure.
The search, led by museum consultant Annmarie Reiley-Kay, aims to identify a dynamic leader who will guide the Center into its next decade of growth and community engagement.
This pivotal role offers an exceptional opportunity for an experienced and visionary professional passionate about cultural heritage, education, and nonprofit excellence.
The new Executive Director will be responsible for shaping the strategic direction of the Morris Center, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. The Center, situated in the historic Sinclair Service Station in Ridgeland, South Carolina, serves as a cornerstone for cultural heritage, community engagement, and educational programming.
Richard Allen, Trustee of the Morris Center, stated, “We are excited to embark on this search for a new Executive Director. Our ideal candidate will bring innovative ideas and a commitment to enhancing our mission of preserving and interpreting Lowcountry heritage. We seek a leader who can inspire our team and foster collaboration within the community.”
The Executive Director's key responsibilities include strategic leadership, community engagement, fundraising, and managing the center's day-to-day operations. The position requires a proven track record in nonprofit management, exceptional leadership skills, and a passion for the arts and history.
“As Tamara transitions from her role, we reflect on her significant contributions to the Morris Center, and we are eager to find a new leader who will build on her achievements,” Allen added.
The Morris Center has received nearly 80 applications from candidates across the country and has now narrowed the pool to a group of finalists. These candidates will be interviewed in the coming weeks as the search committee works to identify the next Executive Director.
The Morris Center anticipates selecting a new Executive Director in the next month to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure continued success. For more information about the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage and the Executive Director search, please visit www.morrisheritagecenter.org.
About Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage
The Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage, located in the heart of downtown Ridgeland, is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich history and culture of Ridgeland and its surrounding counties. Through engaging exhibitions and educational initiatives, the Center fosters a deeper understanding of the Lowcountry's heritage, ensuring its stories continue to resonate with future generations.
www.morrisheritagecenter.org
Position Title: Executive Director Classification: Exempt, Onsite, Full-Time Annual Salary: $80,000 - $100,000+ paid vacation+SEP-IRA Retirement Plan Reports To: Trustee Supervises: Full-Time Staff Download/Print
Nestled in the heart of Ridgeland, South Carolina, the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage is a vibrant cultural institution housed in the beautifully preserved 1937 Sinclair Service Station—an iconic structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Once a vital stop along the historic U.S. Highway 17, this building stands as a symbol of the region’s rich past and enduring connection to transportation, commerce, and community. This September marks the Morris Center’s 10th year of opening its doors to the public, and we are poised to build on a decade of impactful exhibitions, educational programming, and historic preservation. As we celebrate this important milestone, we are looking for a visionary Executive Director to lead the organization into its next chapter of growth and innovation.
The Executive Director (ED) is the chief executive of the Morris Center, responsible for providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and community vision. The ED will champion our mission to preserve and interpret the history and culture of the Lowcountry while ensuring dynamic programming, sustainable growth, and deep community engagement.
This is a rare opportunity for a forward-thinking leader with a passion for heritage, education, and nonprofit excellence to shape the future of a beloved institution at a pivotal moment in its history.
Strategic Leadership
Staff Leadership & Culture
Operations & Financial Oversight
Fundraising & Resource Development
Exhibitions, Programs & Community Engagement
Collections & Preservation
Public Relations & Communications
Required
Additional Requirements
Interested candidates should email a cover letter, resume, and three references to: annmarie.reiley@icloud.com
Please include "Executive Director" in the subject line.
Bringing Heritage to the Heart of the Lowcountry
Tucked right off I-95 in downtown Ridgeland, South Carolina, the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage is a local gem with a powerful purpose: to make the history and culture of the Lowcountry accessible and enriching for all.
With free admission, rotating exhibits, and affordable programming, the Morris Center is more than a museum! From community events to creative workshops, the center serves as a hub providing culture and access to this local community.
A Destination Worth the Stop
If you're a curious traveler, carve out 30-60 minutes for a fascinating stop on your road trip without adding any mileage to your drive! For our local residents, the Morris Center invites you to step into the story of the Lowcountry.
Conveniently located off the interstate, it's an easy and rewarding stop which offers high-quality exhibits without the cost or crowds of larger institutions.Our incredibly dedicated staff and docents will make sure you get the most out of your visit. By pre-scheduling a guided tour for a small fee, you’re not just exploring history-you’re helping preserve it. Every dollar goes directly toward sustaining our museum and ensuring future generations can enjoy the same enriching experience.
Rooted in Ridgeland for a Reason
Unlike other cultural attractions clustered in the tourist-heavy areas of Hilton Head and Savannah, the Morris Center was intentionally established in Ridgeland by Daniel O. Morris.
This landlocked town (often bypassed but full of beauty and historical relevance) is exactly where meaningful access to arts and education can make the biggest impact.
The museum’s presence helps bridge opportunity gaps, creating space for residents and visitors to connect with the region’s rich cultural heritage while creating an easily accessible experience to road trippers.
Rotating Exhibits, Year-Round Discovery
With thoughtfully curated, rotating exhibitions that highlight the people, places, and traditions of the Lowcountry, there's always something new to explore.
From stories of Gullah culture, to local art, to Revolutionary War history and beyond, the museum’s exhibitions are designed to educate and inspire all ages.
Workshops, Programs, and Community Connections
The Morris Center offers a wide range of programs that go beyond the gallery walls. From hands-on workshops and lectures, to family events and educational partnerships with local schools, the programming is crafted to be both affordable and enriching.
These offerings are designed with the community in mind, creating accessible opportunities for learning and fun. We work diligently to develop an annual event schedule that offers creative, educational opportunities for a wide variety of ages and abilities.
Free and Open to All
Admission is always free, because access shouldn’t come at a cost. Whether you're a family looking for an educational outing, a traveler seeking meaningful stops along your journey, or a retiree looking for a great way to spend a day, the Morris Center is here to welcome you.
We are sincerely appreciative to LOCAL Life Magazine for featuring the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage on their list of "Under the Radar Gems of the Lowcountry". Please take a moment to view it here!
LOCAL Life is the premier lifestyle magazine serving the vibrant communities of South Carolina's breathtaking Lowcountry.
Their magazine offers a diverse array of content that encompasses regional culture, food and drink, home and garden, entertainment, the outdoors, and lifestyle topics that resonate with the interests and passions of our readers. Each issue is crafted with care to highlight the unique charm and richness of the region.
Whether you’re looking for the latest culinary delights, tips to enhance your living space, the scoop on local events, or inspiration for outdoor adventures, LOCAL Life is your trusted companion. It’s not just a magazine; it’s a celebration of all that makes the Lowcountry not only a destination but a way of life.
If you’re heading up or down I-95 through South Carolina, there’s a spot in Ridgeland worth getting off the highway for. The Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage is a free museum that offers a genuine glimpse into the culture, history, and art of the Lowcountry.
Locals know the Morris Center as a place where exhibits rotate often and events bring the community together. Travelers tend to find it when they stop for gas, drawn in by the historic Sinclair Gas Station building it calls home. And once inside, they’re surprised by how much is packed into this charming space. Here’s what makes our museum worth a visit:
The Lowcountry has deep roots. If you’ve ever wanted to understand the cultures that shaped this region, this is the place to start.
The Morris Center curates exhibits that explore the area’s layered history by highlighting Native American legacies, African American heritage, including Gullah-Geechee culture, and South Carolina’s role in everything from the colonial period to the American Revolution.
Right now, our Fort Motte exhibition gives visitors a rare look at Revolutionary War artifacts and the lesser-known stories that changed the course of history. On view through June 2026, this is just one example of the many exhibits you’ll enjoy here. You don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate the stories because they’re curated simply and thoughtfully, and there’s always something new to learn.
We love creating ways for people to connect with culture in a meaningful way. That includes students on field trips via our “Fuel the Mind” program, families passing through town, and adults looking to try something new.
Our workshops and events are popular because they’re rooted in tradition but made for everyone. From learning the art of sweetgrass basket weaving to trying your hand at linocut printmaking, the programs are experiences, not lectures. Some are free, others are low-cost, and every dollar supports our mission to keep the Morris Center accessible to all.
We believe museums don’t have to be quiet places where you only walk and read. Are there kid-friendly activities at the Morris Center? You bet. We hope you’ll check out our full calendar of events and come see us soon. We work hard to bring children and young adults into the center with programming that is both interactive and engaging. It’s our duty to ensure people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities can learn at the Morris Center.
Right here. The Morris Center features exhibits that spotlight Lowcountry artists working in traditional and modern mediums from painting and pottery to weaving and woodwork.
Our workshops welcome guest artists teaching techniques passed down through generations. When you visit, you’re not just viewing art. You’re helping sustain our creative community that defines this part of the South.
Yes, and it’s a cool, unique venue if we do say so ourselves! The Morris Center is located in a fully restored Sinclair Gas Station, giving it a one-of-a-kind charm you won’t find anywhere else.
The building itself holds historical significance, making it an ideal setting for hosting events. In addition to the stories and exhibits it houses, the Morris Center is a lovely Lowcountry event venue for celebrations, meetings, and gatherings of any kind.
Our event rental space holds up to 250 people, includes a commercial kitchen and can be transformed into any layout required. Hosting your events in a Lowcountry museum makes for a memorable experience for everyone in attendance.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply someone looking to explore the unique culture of the Lowcountry, the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage truly has it all. We work hard to develop engaging exhibits to support this region’s access to cultural experiences.
Local artists, historians, and other supporters ensure our Lowcountry museum continues to offer a one-of-a-kind experience that brings the region’s history to life for everyone.
We hope you will make the Morris Center your next stop in the Lowcountry, especially if you’re road tripping through South Carolina! Whether you're looking to learn, explore, relax, or stretch your legs on a long drive, the Morris Center is a stop that makes sense. We keep the doors open Tuesday through Saturday, and admission is always free.
As we reflect on the progress and growth of the Morris Center for Lowcountry Heritage, it is with profound gratitude that we acknowledge the generosity of our grant funders. Their support since the beginning of 2024 has been instrumental in bringing a diverse range of programs and initiatives to life.
A heartfelt thank you to the South Carolina Arts Commission for their contribution of the Art of Community - Rural SC grant, which made the Molding Together: Ceramics for All program a reality, enriching lives through the power of creativity. Their funding also supported our Executive Director's participation in the Southeastern Museums Conference Leadership Institute, enhancing our leadership capabilities. Along, with the new grants, the museum continues the work of the Arts for All SC project, a 2-year initiative funded by the Arts Commission that will help increase Morris Center's web and technical accessibility.
We extend our appreciation to South Arts for the Presentation Grant, which will bring Colin Quashie’s Linked exhibition to the Morris Center in 2025, accompanied by educational programs that promise to engage and inspire our community.
The Living Legacy: Programs Illuminating Native and Gullah Histories, funded by South Carolina Humanities, will allow us to shine a light on the rich tapestry of our region's heritage, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation among our visitors.
Locally, we are immensely grateful for Jasper County and the Town of Ridgeland's continued support through Accommodations-tax grants, which have been vital in sustaining our mission.
To all our funders, your belief in our vision propels us forward. Thank you for being part of our journey as we continue to celebrate and preserve the unique culture of the Lowcountry.
Have you ever wanted to dive into the rich tapestry of cultural crafts and create something beautiful with your own hands? Now's your chance! Join us for a unique workshop where history, artistry, and hands-on learning weave together in the most delightful way.
The Gullah culture is an enchanting blend of African and American traditions, nestled in the heart of the Lowcountry.
One of the most cherished legacies of this culture is the art of sweetgrass basket weaving—a skill passed down through generations, which has transcended time to become a symbol of resilience and creativity.
We're thrilled to announce that Michael Smalls, a master weaver with years of experience, will be leading our workshop.
He'll guide you through the intricate process of creating your very own sweetgrass basket or coaster. It's not just a craft; it's a storied piece of heritage that you can hold in your hands.
For $80, you'll receive all the raw materials needed to create your masterpiece. Don't worry about the tools; scissors and nail bone are provided for use during the class and will be returned afterward. All you need to bring is your enthusiasm and readiness to learn!
Date: Saturday, June 29, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Cost: $80 per participant
Spaces are limited, and trust us, you don't want to miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to connect with history and craft something truly special. So why wait?
Register now and secure your spot in this journey back in time with every weave and twist. Let's create memories and baskets that will last a lifetime!
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CONTACT
843-284-9227info@morrisheritagecenter.org
MAILING ADDRESS
PO Box 1116Ridgeland, SC 29936
MUSEUM HOURS
Tuesday - Saturday10 AM - 5 PM
PHYSICAL ADDRESS
10782 S. Jacob Smart Blvd.Ridgeland, SC 29936
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