23 February 2011

John C. takes a stroll


John C. Calhoun, Marion Square, Charleston, S.C.

The story goes that the statue of John C. Calhoun was so understandably hated by the black folk in Charleston that they deliberately carried things with them to toss when they walked by. Eventually it was raised on a pedestal overlooking Marion Square as it is now.

I don't go as far as throwing things at him but I do like to feature him in comical poses when there is a festival in town. Take that, Ye Defender of Slavery.


6 comments:

Les said...

These are fun, but I'm not sure Calhoun would appreciate them, though maybe he has mellowed over the years.

Waldo Lydecker's Journal said...

Once a hater, always a hater. He'd be clamoring to get to the re-enactment of Davis' inauguration, and he'd be ecstatic about the Bedford Forrest license plate.

Living In Williamsburg Virginia said...

Interesting poses although it's hard to judge history through present day eyes. Slavery is abominable but has been practiced by just about every culture so none of us is innocent. Your photos are still funny though.

Darryl and Ruth : )

Charlestonjoan said...

Les - I am depending on him not appreciating them ;)

Darryl and Ruth - Right, I agree, but long and late into the game he was the one fighting to keep slavery.

Waldo - now I have to go google the license plate.

Doug Hickok said...

These are fantastic. Love the humorous juxtapositions. Wonderful discovery!

zakton said...

Brilliant idea in making interesting photos. Now, I'm trying to think of fairs that take place around a statue in my city, so I can apply your idea.