This highway marker, erected in 1947 by the Charleston chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC) with a city donation, originally stood at what is now the Charleston School of Math and Science. It commemorates the “Robert E. Lee Memorial Highway” and features the Confederate seal. Removed in 2021 by the Charleston County School District amid broader debates on Confederate symbols, the UDC sued but later dropped the case. The marker went into city storage before returning to the UDC, who then secured permission from Marion Square’s private owners (Washington Light Infantry and South Carolina Historical Society) for its installation.
Recent Placement and Controversy
The memorial appeared in Marion Square overnight without public notice, sparking criticism from State Sen. Ed Sutton. He argues it bypassed community input, unlike other park memorials such as the Holocaust Memorial, Revolutionary War plaque, or Medal of Honor plaque. Marion Square is a “privately owned public space,” allowing installation without city approval—contrasting with the 2020 removal of the John C. Calhoun statue from city-owned property due to his pro-slavery views. Sutton calls for dialogue on how such monuments affect diverse communities, noting no outreach to nearby African American sites like Mother Emanuel AME Church.
Perspectives from Involved Parties
- Critics like Sen. Sutton: View the stealth installation as contrary to Charleston values of hospitality and inclusivity. He questions why a Confederate figure’s tribute stands while Calhoun’s was removed, emphasizing the need for broader conversations on historical symbols.
- UDC Response: Chapter President Dena Wall defends it as fulfilling a 1947 preservation duty, tying it to Charleston’s history of historical stewardship. They see the prominent spot as a “new day” for America’s monuments.
Broader Context in Charleston
Charleston has grappled with Confederate symbols post-2015 Emanuel church massacre, leading to removals like the Calhoun statue (relocated to a less prominent site) and other markers. Marion Square hosts diverse tributes, but this case highlights tensions between private property rights and public space expectations. Legal experts note South Carolina law protects privately placed monuments from easy removal, though public pressure could influence owners.
For local updates, check sources like Live 5 News (News 2) or the Post and Courier, as community discussions may evolve. What aspect of this story interests you most—historical context, legal details, or similar events elsewhere?
