Support Us Button Widget

Removal and relocation of Charleston’s John C. Calhoun Monument

IMG_9255

John C. Calhoun Monument removal | Photo by the CHStoday team

Table of Contents

Last night, Charleston City Council unanimously voted to remove the John C. Calhoun Monument in Marion Square. Mayor Tecklenburg says the resolution to relocate the statue will be discussed during their next meeting on June 30.

The John C. Calhoun Monument

  • The monument was built in May 1896 to honor statesman John C. Calhoun. Since its establishment, the monument has generated controversy within the community. In his statement, Mayor Tecklenburg referred to Calhoun as “both South Carolina’s most prominent national statesman and its most consequential defender of slavery and white supremacy.” Read the monument’s full history here.
  • Over the years, additions to the statue such as a plaque with more detailed historical context and overview of Calhoun – were advocated for, but never agreed upon.
  • The monument is owned by the city, but sits on privately owned land belonging to the Board of Officers of the Washington Light Infantry and the Sumter Guard.
  • Charleston City Council unanimously voted on its removal during their meeting on June 23.
  • The City Council will discuss the fate of the monument during their meeting next Tuesday (June 30). You can live stream the meeting via the City of Charleston’s YouTube channel.
  • Until a decision is made, the John C. Calhoun Monument will be kept in an undisclosed indoor location.

South Carolina operates under a Heritage Act, which grants the state sole ability to change or remove any monuments or memorials that belong to the state. While the City of Charleston claims this act does not apply to this particular monument since it belongs to the city and sits on privately-owned ground, it is unclear whether the city will end up fighting the state.

Mayor Tecklenubrg expressed his desire for the monument to be relocated to a museum or academic institution where the statue can be observed in full historical context. He stated, “The purpose of this resolution is not to discard any of our past, but to honor our lessons. Not to erase any of that history, but to write a new chapter.Watch the full meeting here.

The removal process began just before midnight following the City Council meeting. As of Wednesday morning, crews have run into some technical conflicts and are still working to lift the statue.

More from CHStoday
Toadfish Conservation Coalition’s annual fundraiser brings oysters and live music to Bowen’s Island Restaurant.
Use our guide to navigate dozens of holiday events happening from Summerville to IOP and everywhere in between.
The team behind 71 Wentworth aimed to preserve architectural integrity while transforming it into contemporary homes.
Hit the road and head to Savannah — we’re sharing all the details about what to do and eat, plus where to stay.
Sweeter than Fiction also sells apparel, stickers, tumblers, candles, and stationery from its King Street store.
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Charleston?
Get to know a baker who calls Charleston home and prepare to cheer her on the Food Network’s “Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking” competition.
Get ready to make waves at Riverfront Park.
Fleet Landing is a locally-owned seafood restaurant that is celebrating a major milestone + giving back to the Charleston community.
This list of volunteer opportunities in Charleston includes everything from lending a hand at the hospital to donating to a local cause.