Founded in 1869, Claflin
University stands proudly as South Carolina's oldest historically black university. The Arthur Rose Museum, originally erected in 1898 as the university's first library building, is a cornerstone of its rich history. Mrs. Priscilla E. Lee Bennett, a staunch supporter of the institution, generously provided funds for the library's construction. She requested that the building be named after her maiden name, Lee, which is inscribed on a Claflin University terra-cotta tablet next to the front porch, dating back to 1898.
The library's architect was none other than William Wilson Cooke, a Claflin graduate who returned to teach. Cooke, the son of a prominent Reconstructionist from Greenville, SC, drew plans for the Lee Library in a distinctive Victorian style and supervised its execution by his students in 1898. Remarkably, students even fired the bricks in kilns dug on the campus. Little has changed on the exterior since then, except for the loss of the original metal tile roof. A walk around the building reveals intriguing architectural details in the ornate trim work, chimneys, and urn grills.
Following the relocation of the library to another part of the campus, this building served as the home of the art department for many years under the chairmanship of Professor Arthur Rose. Later, the art department moved to Layman Hall. After the board of trustees decided to convert the old Lee building into a museum, efforts were made to restore much of the original appearance of the interior of the building. The removal of the carpet revealed the beautiful hardwood floors, and the pressed metal ceiling remains in near-perfect condition. Today, we proudly welcome you to what has now become the Arthur Rose Museum.
The Arthur Rose Museum houses exhibits from world-renowned artists, making it a cultural hub within the university. Visitors are welcome to explore the museum Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public. Come, experience, and be inspired by the rich heritage and artistic marvels at the Arthur Rose Museum.
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