Media Advisory: Ceremonial Groundbreaking May 13 for Robert Smalls Monument

Columbia, S.C. – The Robert Smalls Monument Commission has scheduled a groundbreaking ceremony for the Robert Smalls Monument 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 13, at the designated and legislatively approved site for the monument on the South Carolina State House grounds.

The monument site is located in the northeast quadrant of the State House grounds, near the visitor entrance to the building.

Governor Henry D. McMaster and South Carolina Representative Brandon L. Cox, primary sponsor of Act 183 of 2024, will deliver remarks during the ceremony, joining members of the Robert Smalls Monument Commission and legislative leaders in recognizing the life and legacy of Robert Smalls.

Robert Smalls, a Beaufort native, was a heroic figure, public servant and statesman who served in the South Carolina Legislature and the United States House of Representatives. The Robert Smalls Monument Commission was created by Act 183 of the 2024 South Carolina Legislature to determine the design and location of a monument honoring Smalls on the State House grounds.

For information on the Robert Smalls Monument Commission, visit admin.sc.gov/robertsmalls.
 

Important Information for Media:

Media should bring their own drop cords for this event.

Media outlets requiring power should bring extension cords capable of covering a 150-foot distance from the state-provided source.

A ceremonial shovel-in-the-sand photo opportunity will immediately follow the remarks.

Some members of the Robert Smalls Monument Commission will be available for media interviews following the groundbreaking ceremony.