Few people have done more to preserve local history and spread the word about it than Lee Ann Bain!
Her efforts for DIHS over the years have included helping set up programming, coordinating our historic marker project, and dedicated service on a range of board leadership roles. Currently the DIHS Community Outreach Director she is the key link to local schools where she helps coordinate projects like the Philip Simmons Art Shows, the Dave the Potter project, History Trunks and more.
She’s also the point person on our efforts to place a display case for local historical items in the Island’s new rec center. Lee Ann is a terrific illustration of the old saying, “if you have a tough job you need done, give it to a busy woman!”
And she doesn’t limit her efforts to here on Daniel Island.
Lee Ann, who is also a licensed City of Charleston tour guide, worked diligently to get a state historical marker funded, created and installed in recognition of the homesite of Grimké brothers Francis and Archibald, early 20th century activists for African American rights. The brothers are the nephews of famed abolitionists and Charleston natives Angelina and Sarah Grimké.
Lee Ann leads a Grimké Sisters Tour that was inspired by the book “The Invention of Wings” by Sue Monk Kidd. The 2 hour and 15 minute walk in downtown Charleston highlights locations and events from the book, divulges untold stories and completes the tale of the Grimké sisters. The new Grimké brothers’ marker, which was sponsored by the Preservation Society of Charleston, was officially unveiled on December 15 at 176 Coming Street! Congratulations, Lee Ann!
Lee Ann Bain is pictured at the new Weston- Grimké Homesite state historical marker at 176 Coming Street in downtown Charleston with Edwin Breeden, National Register Historian and Historical Markers Coordinator for the State Historic Preservation Office.
Reverse side of Weston-Grimke marker