We have created a site wide experience that includes the building on the corner of MLK Blvd and W 36th Street, including The Futch Grocer Studio, the Courtyard and The Kiah House. The entire site works together to create a new experience that builds upon the core of why Virginia and Calvin wanted to open a new ‘museum for the masses.
The Kiah House project will revitalize the home of Virginia Kiah, who retrofitted it in 1959 in order to establish the first African American founded museum in Savannah
Following Virginia’s death in 2001, the home sat in probate for 20 years. Historic Savannah Foundation was able to purchase the home in April 2022, and in 2023 The Galvan Foundation (now Civis Foundation) acquired the property.
According to the Civis Foundation, the Kiah House project will revitalize the home of Virginia Kiah, who retrofitted it in 1959 in order to establish the first African American founded museum in Savannah. In partnership with the City of Savannah, the project presents an opportunity to restore a historic building with significant social and cultural history and reintroduce it as an active arts and community service program.
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