Unearthing History: The Restoration of the Rutledge Tomb in Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant, S.C. is getting ready to shine a light on a little-known piece of history that lies hidden just off Highway 41. Tucked away behind trees and brush in the historic Phillips Community is the tomb of John Rutledge Sr., a noteworthy figure in American history. As the father of both John and Edward Rutledge, who are recognized as signers of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, the site carries significant historical weight.
A Hidden Treasure
Bringing attention to this hidden gem, Richard Habersham from the Phillips Community Association spoke about the tomb’s current state. “This is the tomb of John Rutledge,” he shared, pointing at the grave site that has unfortunately become obscured over the years. Habersham reminisced about a time when the tomb was more visible. “When I was younger, all this was farmland. It was visible from the highway,” he said with a touch of nostalgia.
Exciting Restoration Plans
But fear not, history enthusiasts! Exciting plans are afoot to restore the tomb and make it accessible to the public. Sam Sewell, representing the Lowcountry Land Trust, announced, “We’re going to be doing a restoration of this site.” In the pipeline is an initiative to create a pocket park along the sidewalk, which will not only beautify the area but also enable everyone to appreciate this significant landmark.
A Historical Significance
This site is not just a connection to the Rutledge family; it bears witness to a complex chapter of American history, specifically the plantation era. Habersham weighed in on the multifaceted nature of history, stating, “It’s not a one-sided thing, you know. Some good, some bad, but it’s history.” This acknowledgment of the past is crucial to understanding the present and future of the community.
Collaborative Efforts
The upcoming restoration project will be a collaborative effort involving the Lowcountry Land Trust, Clemson University, and the Phillips Community Association. With various parties coming together, the hope is to revive this important historical site while promoting community engagement.
Funding and Future Steps
However, as with many community projects, there are questions about costs and funding sources. While details remain somewhat unclear at this moment, there is optimism around the future of the project. The excitement over restoring the tomb reflects a community that values its heritage and strives to make history accessible for everyone.
Looking Ahead
The restoration of John Rutledge Sr.’s tomb is just the beginning of what promises to be an enriching journey for Mount Pleasant residents and visitors alike. As we look ahead to making this historical site a point of interest, it’s an excellent opportunity to engage with local history and understand the narratives that have shaped our community.
So, whether you’re a history buff or just a curious person looking to learn more about your surroundings, stay tuned as Mount Pleasant takes steps to unearth a gem from the past. With the collaboration of dedicated groups and community members, the dream of reviving this historical site is just around the corner. Let’s celebrate this journey into the past and embrace the stories that continue to define our present!
