Hispanic Heritage Month: Celebrating Cultures and Stories
Every year from September 15 through October 15, communities throughout the United States celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to recognize the histories, cultures, achievements, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Here in Beaufort County, we have much to celebrate! Hispanic heritage is not simply part of our nation’s story; it is an important and vibrant part of our own community’s story.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Hispanic or Latino residents comprise approximately 13 percent of Beaufort County’s population (U.S. Census Bureau n.d.), representing a wonderfully diverse array of backgrounds, with heritage tracing to Mexico, Puerto Rico, Honduras, and many other countries and regions throughout the Caribbean, Central America, South America, and Spain (U.S. Census Bureau 2024).
Have you ever wondered why Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15 rather than September 1? There is a fascinating historical reason. The national observance began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson. Twenty years later, legislation signed by President Ronald Reagan expanded the celebration to the 31-day period we recognize today, September 15 through October 15 (Library of Congress n.d.). September 15 was chosen because it coincides with important independence anniversaries throughout Latin America. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua commemorate their independence on September 15, followed by Mexico on September 16 and Chile on September 18 (Library of Congress n.d.).
Hispanic Heritage Month also reminds us that “Hispanic” does not describe one nationality, culture, cuisine, or tradition. Instead, it represents people whose histories, experiences, and family traditions span many countries, regions, and generations. We are fortunate to see that wonderful diversity reflected throughout Beaufort County.
This year, the Beaufort County Library is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with programs and exhibits highlighting local history, culture, art, and, most importantly, the people who help make our community what it is.
On September 15 from 2–3 p.m., the Beaufort District Collection/Local History will present The Gonzalez-Elliott Family of Beaufort District, with Raul Galvan, at the Beaufort Branch Library. This program will explore a family story connecting Hispanic heritage with the history of our own region.
From September 15 through October 15, the Bluffton Branch Library will host Canvas of Cultura! Local Hispanic Artists Exhibit during normal library hours. The exhibit will showcase artwork by Dixie Vigil, Itzel Guedea Giron, Paola Garza, Shaine Tao, and Valérie J. Cabnilla Vigil, offering visitors the opportunity to experience and appreciate the creativity of Hispanic artists right here in our community.
The celebration culminates on Saturday, October 3, from 11 a.m.–1 p.m., with the Bluffton Branch Library’s Fifth Annual Our Cultures, Our Stories: A Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration. Volunteer country representatives will host colorful informational tables representing their ancestry and sharing the histories, geography, traditions, and cultures of Hispanic nations and regions. Visitors can also enjoy live Latin music, cultural dance, a bilingual storytime, face painting, and more.
Hispanic Heritage Month gives us a special time to celebrate, but the people and stories we honor are part of Beaufort County every day. Our public libraries are places where these stories can be shared, discovered, and celebrated. We invite everyone to join us to learn something new and celebrate the wonderful diversity that enriches the community we all share. After all, these are our cultures. These are our stories. And together, they are part of Beaufort County's story.
References
Library of Congress. n.d. “National Hispanic Heritage Month: A Commemorative Observances Legal Research Guide: Legislative History Overview.” Research Guides. Accessed August 12, 2026.
U.S. Census Bureau. 2024. “B03001: Hispanic or Latino Origin by Specific Origin.” 2024 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates. Accessed August 12, 2026.
U.S. Census Bureau. n.d. “QuickFacts: Beaufort County, South Carolina.” QuickFacts. Accessed August 12, 2026.
