One of the most positive ideas we’re heard recently is for South Carolina to build a wall – no, not that kind of wall – to celebrate and honor our state’s heroic fight for freedom from tyranny 250 years ago.
As envisioned, a new memorial wall dedicated to the 7,500 men and women who died in South Carolina during the American Revolution would be similar to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.
It would list the names of men and women of all races, nationalities and colonies who died in South Carolina from 1775 to 1783 and who furthered the cause of American freedom and democracy – rule by the people, not a despot.
As reported this week by senior editor Herb Frazier, Daniel Island resident Kenneth Scarlett has been put in charge of a task force to get the project done. He said the Patriots Memorial Wall would “serve as the glue of patriotism that unites us as Americans.”
A wall that unites, not divides or excludes. Imagine that. Great idea.
Earlier this year, the state formally kicked off the S.C. American Revolution Sestercentennial Commission. More easily remembered as SC250, the S.C. General Assembly chartered the effort in 2018 “to celebrate and promote South Carolina’s role in the American Revolution by educating, engaging and inspiring South Carolinians and visitors.”
Last week, the commission of which Scarlett is a member agreed to spend $12,000 for the design and construction process for the wall, which could cost $1 million to be gleaned from public and private contributions.
Scarlett, former owner of an Upstate survey company and author of a 2022 book on American independence, said he hoped the new memorial would be unveiled on July 4, 2026, as the country celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Lots of details still need to be worked out about the wall, proposed to be built at Liberty Square in Charleston on land that once belonged to patriot and slave-trader Christopher Gadsden. That land, which also now is home to the International African American Museum just down the street, is the last place occupied by the British before they withdrew in December 1782.
Perhaps the most important thing to work out is to ensure as many names of people who should be listed on the wall are actually listed. Records of enslaved Africans tend to be scant, but organizers expect a large team of volunteer researchers will develop a professional list that surely will be added to in the years ahead.
Once built, visitors are expected to see this inscription on the inspirational wall: “Freedom is the light for which many have died in darkness so we may enjoy the fruits of liberty today. Remember and honor their sacrifice.”
Indeed. Let’s build this wall. Let’s inspire future generations of South Carolinians and Americans.
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