The Ruffin Project
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Apsire2Inspire Initiative, Inc. is dedicated to creating a vibrant and thriving community in Ruffin, SC. Our mission is to revitalize the school building, transforming it into a hub that will benefit the Ruffin and surrounding areas. Together we can make a difference and create a bright future for the Ruffin community.
The Foundation: The Ruffin Rosenwald School
This frame building dates to 1928-29 and originally housed a segregated school for Black residents of Ruffin. Its cost was paid by local African Americans, the school district, and the Julius Rosenwald Fund. Approx. 5,000 Rosenwald schools were built in S.C. This is the only one known to still stand in Colleton County. This building was replaced by Ruffin High School and Elementary School, built across Smyly Road in 1954 and1962. Both were funded by the S. C. equalization program, an effort to preserve segregation by improving Black schools.
The History
hThe historic Ruffin High School, which closed its doors in 2012, it sits on a sprawling piece of land on Patriot Lane in Ruffin, South Carolina, one can only imagine its majestic view before 2012. The school building still has strong bones, a testament to the students and teachers of the past, an atmosphere of academic excellence can still be felt as one enters the building.
The Vision
In 2023 the land and school was purchased by Siwel Inc. The property Is leased by nonprofit Aspire 2Inspire Initiative, Inc. with goals to revitalize the school and transform it into a community hub. This center of resources will benefit not only the Ruffin community but also surrounding counties.
