Lawmakers Propose Statue of Black Civil War Hero Robert Smalls Outside Statehouse

COLUMBIA — Amid the prominent white figures memorialized at South Carolina’s Statehouse, a proposed statue of Robert Smalls — a
former slave turned Civil War hero and statesman — could soon break the racial monotony.

In an eye-opening move toward racial diversification, a bipartisan group of South Carolina lawmakers are looking to install a statue commemorating the remarkable life and feats of Robert Smalls. If approved, this would be the first stand-alone monument on the Statehouse grounds in honor of a Black individual.

Robert Smalls: A Symbol of Overcoming Oppression

Smalls, born into slavery in 1839, emerged as a key figure against the oppressive Confederate reign. In 1862, he hijacked a Confederate supply ship, guided his family to freedom, and delivered the loaded vessel to the Union. Smalls later served South Carolina as a state legislator and five-term congressman.

“Robert Smalls’ story resonates with people regardless of race or political party. I am looking forward to bringing my children here, to see this monument, and learn about this individual who came from similar struggles as their ancestors and overcame all obstacles,” stated Representative Jermaine Johnson, a Black Democrat.

A Monument to Unity and Acknowledgment

With the bill to create a monument to Smalls gaining universal support from a House subcommittee, thirty-three other legislators, including House Speaker Murrell Smith, have endorsed it, indicating possible smooth passage through the House. This will mark the first monument consensus since the contentious Confederate flag removal from the Statehouse grounds in 2015.

Also, the South Carolina Senate has initiated separate plans to commemorate Smalls within the Statehouse, fuelling a multi-faceted effort to honor Smalls’ legacy. This includes a push to commission his portrait within the chamber where he served from 1870 to 1874.

The Journey Towards a Monument

It’s important to note that the journey towards erecting a monument for Smalls has been arduous. Earlier, in 2007, a moratorium was implemented to prevent the addition of further monuments at the capitol complex. This moratorium, however, allows for exceptions through an approval process – lending hope to the proposed monument’s chances.

Despite the moratorium, the unanimous support for a monument dedicated to Smalls highlights a growing recognition of overlooked Black heroes and a determination to rectify past oversights. A monumental tribute to Smalls will be a steppingstone towards a more inclusive historical representation.

Who Was Robert Smalls?

Smalls’ life has been a captivating tale of courage and resilience in the face of systemic oppression. As a slave-turned-pilot for the Confederates, Smalls daringly commandeered the steamship Planter through Confederate guns to safe shores, marking himself as a beacon of rebellion against Confederate rule. Later, as part of a majority-Black delegation, he advocated for the rights of all men and children’s free education, reflecting his wide-ranging impact on South Carolina history.

Plans for the Monument

The proposed Robert Smalls monument is set to be funded through private donations; the size and design will depend on the funds raised. While it is still unknown how much would be required, the unwavering dedication to honor Smalls’ legacy promises a sure arrival of funds.

The monument to Robert Smalls will not only foster a more diverse and complete historical narrative but also serve as a symbol of unity and progress. As we stand on the precipice of change, this move is a powerful nod towards a more inclusive future.