Robert Smalls Honored with Monument on State House Grounds
Governor of South Carolina, Henry McMaster, has signed a new bill commemorating the “forgotten son of South Carolina”, Robert Smalls, with a state-funded monument. The landmark will be erect at the state house grounds, in acknowledgment of Robert’s significant contributions in shaping the state’s history.
From Slavery to Key Statesman
Robert Smalls was born as a slave in 1839 on a Beaufort plantation. At the age of 23, in a daring feat of courage and bravery, Robert took over a Confederate ship and successfully escaped to freedom with his fellow Black passengers.
His escape did not mark the end of his association with the Union, as he joined the forces and ascended to the notable position of the first Black Army vessel captain. After the Civil War was over, Robert entered politics, serving five terms at the U.S. House of Representatives after fruitful terms at both the South Carolina State Senate and House of Representatives.
Contributions Beyond Politics
Smalls’ accomplishments weren’t confined to politics only. He also went on to open a school for Black children, started the Beaufort Southern Standard, a newspaper, and held the position of U.S. Customs collector at the port of Beaufort. Smalls’ fascinating life journey ended in 1915 in the very house where he had been born and enslaved but had later purchased in adulthood.
The Unforgettable Legacy of Robert Smalls
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Henry McMaster stated, “Our state and people are unique from anywhere else in the world because of extraordinary individuals like Robert Smalls, whose legacies have shaped our state into what it is today.”
He further added, “This monument will help preserve an important piece of our rich history and ensure the legacy and accomplishments of Robert Smalls will not be soon forgotten.”
Robert Smalls Commission to Oversee the Monument
The bill also led to the creation of the Robert Smalls Commission, a dedicated body entrusted with the task of designing and placing the monument. The commission will involve in ensuring that Robert’s extraordinary achievements, resilience, and unique life story are aptly represented and celebrated through the monument.
In 2007, the U.S. Army also honored Robert posthumously by naming a ship Maj. Gen. Robert Smalls. This ship was the first ever to hold the distinction of being named after an African-American.
