+ When was the Willow Hill School founded?

The Willow Hill School was founded by former slaves in 1874, nine years after the end of the Civil War, on Daniel Riggs’ place in Portal, Georgia. The school operated until 1999. At its closing, Willow Hill was the longest continually operating school in Bulloch County, Georgia.

+ When and why was the Willow Hill Heritage and Renaissance Center (WHHRC) founded?

In 2005, when the Willow Hill School was put on the auction block, twelve descendants of the school’s founders purchased the school to establish a museum and community center to honor the work of their ancestors, preserve a piece of American History, create a appreciation of African American History and promote an understanding of the school’s historical, social and educational impact on the community, state of Georgia and the nation.

+ How did Willow Hill School obtain national attention?

In 1988, Nkenge Jackson, then a 13 year old student in the Columbus Public Schools, did a history day project on the Willow Hill School which won second place at the state level and won first place in the Junior Division at the National History Day in Washington, DC. This National Award led to the story of the Willow Hill School being recognized by The American Association of State and Local History, the Ohio Association of Historical Societies and Museums, The Ohio General Assembly, Columbus Ohio City Council, Columbus Ohio Public Schools, and The Bulloch County Historical Society.

+ How is the Willow Hill Heritage and Renaissance Center funded?

The Center generates its funding primarily through the generosity of the public, rental of the building, memberships and in-kind services.

+ How can I support the Willow Hill Heritage and Renaissance Center

Willow Hill Heritage and Renaissance Center is a 501(c)(3) organization. Your tax-deductible gift will be greatly appreciated. Follow the Support the Center link to make a donation on-line. You may also send a donation to The Willow Hill Heritage and Renaissance Center to our mailing address.

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 60277 Savannah, GA 31420

+ How can I become a volunteer at the Willow Hill Heritage and Renaissance Center?

Please contact us by email or by calling the Center's phone

Email: museum@willowhillheritage.org

Phone: (912) 865-7154

+ How can I rent the facilities or a room at the Center?

Willow Hill Heritage and Renaissance Center is a smoke-free and alcohol-free facility. The center is available to host meetings, funeral repasts, graduation events, family reunions, and other social events. Please contact us by email or by calling the Center's phone

Email: museum@willowhillheritage.org

Phone: (912) 865-7154

+ When is the Willow Hill Heritage and Renaissance Center’s museum open? How much does it cost to view the exhibit?

Currently there are no regular hours. Appointments to view the exhibit can be made by contact us by email or phone. There is no charge, but donations are accepted.

+ How do I donate artifacts and memorabilia to the Center?

Artifacts and memorabilia related to Willow Hill and African American History are of interest to the center. Please contact Willow Hill Heritage and Renaissance Center’s historian, Dr. Alvin D. Jackson at alvindjackson@aol.com.

+ Where is the Willow Hill Heritage and Renaissance Center located?

The Center is located at 4235 Willow Hill Road, Portal, Georgia 30450.