My name is Ade Ajani Ofunniyin, and I am proud to be the grandson of the legendary Charleston Blacksmith, Philip Simmons. I humbly accept the recognition of my grandfather’s greatness and the rich legacy I carry with his name. This is a responsibility I hold with great respect.
Early Years: Walking in My Grandfather’s Footsteps
I was born in Charleston and lived there until I was seven. At that point, I moved to New York City to join my mother, Frances Vernon, Philip’s eldest daughter. The first seven years of my life were spent walking in my grandfather’s footsteps. I cherish the memories of the times we shared, often laughing and reflecting on our experiences together. From an early age, I knew that my grandfather was a remarkable man. As a young boy, I often accompanied him, waiting as he visited friends or met customers. These years shaped my view of the world and left a lasting bond that connects me to him even today.
Returning to Charleston: Fulfilling My Grandfather’s Request
In 1985, at the age of 32, I returned to Charleston. I had come to honor my grandfather’s request and to fulfill my destiny. Although I had physically left Charleston at seven, my heart and spirit remained intertwined with this city. Now, as an adult, I understand why my grandfather loved walking the streets of Charleston so much. Even in his later years, he preferred walking or taking the bus, turning down offers for rides from friends.
Apprenticing at the Blacksmith Shop
When I returned, I apprenticed in Philip Simmons’ blacksmith shop. It was there that I was able to experience Charleston through my grandfather’s eyes. I met other artisans who would come by the shop for advice or to repair tools and appliances. Some brought ironwork projects that I was able to help with, building relationships of my own. Despite my passion for blacksmithing, my grandfather often said that I didn’t spend enough time at the forge. He respected my other interests, however, and encouraged me to build a life beyond the shop.
Pursuing Higher Education: A New Path
In 1998, I left Charleston once more to pursue a PhD in Anthropology at the University of Florida. This decision was partly influenced by an injury I sustained in an auto accident, which caused me ongoing back pain and made heavy lifting difficult. My grandfather also played a role in my choice to return to school. On several occasions, when I should have been working in the shop, he found me reading books. When I shared my dream of earning a professional degree, he fully supported it.
Exploring African Blacksmithing Traditions
I earned a Master’s degree in archaeology, which connected my family’s blacksmithing tradition to African blacksmithing practices. Under the guidance of Peter Schmidt, a leading scholar on African ironwork, I traveled to Nigeria and Kenya to study blacksmithing communities. This experience gave me new insights into the cultural significance of blacksmithing in African societies. I presented my findings at academic conferences and published research papers on the subject. My PhD dissertation, which I completed in 2008, focused on the spiritual development of Ifa/Orisa practitioners in the African diaspora.
Returning to Charleston: Honoring My Grandfather’s Spirit
After earning my PhD, my grandfather passed away in 2009. I returned to Charleston just before his passing, feeling as though his spirit had called me back. I came once again to fulfill my destiny and to embrace the city’s beautiful sunrises, sunsets, and landscapes.
Founding Studio PS/Gullah Theatre
Upon my return, I founded Studio PS/Gullah Theatre on 10 Conroy Street in Midtown Charleston. My vision for the studio was to create a space for local artists to develop their skills and showcase their work. The studio became a hub for Gullah theatrical performances, offering an authentic view of Gullah culture that went beyond the usual stereotypes. We also served delicious Gullah cuisine, creating a unique cultural experience for the community.
Teaching at the College of Charleston
Today, I serve as an adjunct professor at the College of Charleston, teaching two courses: Critical Dialogue on Race, Gender, and Diversity, and Design With Culture: Documenting, Interpreting, and Preserving Charleston Gullah Traditions in Cemeteries. The Critical Dialogue course encourages students to engage in meaningful conversations about racism, sexism, and other forms of oppression. The Design With Culture course allows students to gain fieldwork experience on projects like the Daniel Island Sacred Burial Grounds Project and the upcoming Edisto Island Sacred Burial Grounds Project. Through these courses, I continue to share the lessons and legacies that have shaped my own journey.
