Roots of BBQ Academy 2022

Roots of BBQ Academy was a two day in-depth historical whole hog barbecue immersion experience in Manning, SC.

This class provided demonstrations on cooking whole hog BBQ and live fire cooking. We also learned about the history and culture behind Black barbecue in America. In a curated series of round table and round the pit conversations we heard personal stories from Black voices that are typically ignored in the conversation about the origins of American Barbecue. This event was held May 28-29, 2022.

We learned from farmers, pitmasters, and Dr. Howard Conyers- experts in whole hog barbecue.

This is an amazing event for people who love American history, culture, great food, and fellowship!

Media Team

Donald “D Ray” Washington – Baton Rouge, LA
Bennie Robertson – Baton Rouge, LA
Al – Baton Rouge, LA
Kedrick Johnson – Manning, SC
Freda Funnye – Myrtle Beach, SC
Jonathan Cooper – Charlotte, NC

Hospitality Team

Marvin Ross – Hog Farmer & Chef
BJ Dennis – Chef
Greg Defranco – Volunteer
Amethyst Ganaway – Chef
Johnny Caldwell & Taneka Reaves – Cocktail Bandits
Backyard Distillery – Moonshine
Conyers Family BBQ – BBQ
Sierra Swan – Event Planner

Special Guests

Marcus & Bree Newsome Bass – Activists
Elle Simone Scott – She Chef Founder
Tyson Ho – Pitmaster from Brooklyn, New York that cooked whole hog bbq
Ben Burkett – legendary Farmer, and mentor
Deah Berry Mitchell – Event co-host
Zella Palmer – Dillard University Ray Charles African American Material Culture Chair
Ryan Mitchell – Pitmaster
Rodrick Scott – Pitmaster and wood supplier