News Summary
Columbia, South Carolina, is set to honor Civil War hero Robert Smalls with a statue approved by the Statehouse committee. The 12-foot statue, designed by artist Basil Watson, will be positioned near the Statehouse’s entrance and will juxtapose with the statue of former governor Ben Tillman, highlighting themes of equality and justice. Smalls’ legacy as a former enslaved man who played a pivotal role in American history will be celebrated through this artistic tribute, aiming for an unveiling by July 4, 2026.
Columbia Welcomes Monument for Civil War Hero Robert Smalls
Exciting news is brewing in Columbia, South Carolina! The Statehouse committee has given the green light to a magnificent statue honoring Robert Smalls, an outstanding individual whose life story is nothing short of incredible. This former enslaved man turned Civil War hero has made quite a mark in history, and now he’s about to get the recognition he deserves in the heart of the state.
Location, Location, Location!
The statue will be strategically placed near the visitor’s entrance of the Statehouse, ensuring that everyone who walks by will see it. What makes this spot particularly interesting is that it will be in clear view of the statue of former governor Ben Tillman, a man notorious for his white supremacist views. This setup creates a powerful juxtaposition, highlighting the ongoing journey for equality and justice in South Carolina.
An Artistic Tribute
Artist Basil Watson, an acclaimed creative from Atlanta, is the genius behind the design of Smalls’ monument. Watson is well-known for his works that honor figures in Black history, and this statue promises to be a splendid addition to his portfolio. Standing at a stunning 12 feet tall, the statue will show Smalls in a tuxedo, symbolizing his remarkable achievements and his rightful place alongside other significant memorials at the Statehouse.
A Hero’s Journey
Robert Smalls did not have an easy life. Born into slavery on April 5, 1839, in Beaufort, South Carolina, he would go on to do extraordinary things. During the Civil War in 1862, he commandeered a Confederate transport vessel called the Planter, leading it to freedom. His brave actions not only saved his own life but also played a pivotal role in influencing President Abraham Lincoln to enlist Black soldiers in the Union Army.
A Legacy Beyond the Battlefield
After the war, Smalls didn’t stop there. He became one of the first Black members of Congress from South Carolina and was a driving force behind establishing public education for Black children in the state. His contributions have left a lasting legacy that deserves to be celebrated more widely.
Making History
The Robert Smalls Monument Commission isn’t taking this lightly. They voted unanimously on January 8, 2025, to select Watson’s design after spending two years making sure they honored Smalls appropriately. Commission members are thrilled about highlighting his legacy, and they even plan to include historical facts about his life on the statue’s base for everyone to learn from.
Community Engagement and Support
Interestingly, the construction of this monument will rely on private funding, and the committee has already seen significant donor interest. Representatives Brandon Cox and Jermaine Johnson have expressed their enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging Smalls’ historical impact.
Looking Ahead
While there’s no official deadline for the statue’s completion, the hope is to unveil it by July 4, 2026. The timing couldn’t be more perfect, considering it’s a celebration of freedom in America—what better tribute to a man who embodied that spirit?
Continued Recognition
This monument marks a significant milestone as it will be the first dedicated to an individual African American figure on South Carolina Statehouse grounds. It’s a step towards addressing historical narratives that have often overlooked the contributions of Black individuals. The process of selecting this design included community input and discussions that emphasized Smalls’ legacy, showing how far we’ve come and how much further we have to go in honoring the past.
So, if you’re in Columbia in the coming years, be on the lookout! You will soon see a new statue that not only celebrates Robert Smalls’ life but also stands as a testament to the ongoing fight for equality and recognition. This is more than just a monument; it’s a beacon of hope and progress for all.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beaufort Settles on Limited Access for Robert Smalls House
Robert Smalls House to be Preserved and Open to Public
Beaufort, S.C. Celebrates Robert Smalls with Historic Statue
Columbia to Erect Monument Honoring Civil War Hero Robert Smalls
Columbia, South Carolina To Unveil Statue Honoring Civil War Hero Robert Smalls
Columbia to Erect Statue Honoring Civil War Hero Robert Smalls at State House
Columbia to Erect Statue of Robert Smalls, Honoring His Remarkable Escape from Slavery
Beaufort, South Carolina Set to Erect Statue Honoring Civil War Hero Robert Smalls
South Carolina Legislature Commences Monumental Task to Honour Civil War Hero Robert Smalls, Initiating Discussions on Memorial Design and Funding
Good News for Robert Smalls Fans, S.C. Launches Monument Commission
Additional Resources
- ABC Columbia
- AP News
- Explore Beaufort SC
- Smithsonian Magazine
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Robert Smalls
