(Columbia, S.C.) – The South Carolina American Revolution Sestercentennial Commission (SC250) convened representatives from 40 of 46 county committees at its first-ever "The Gathering" event held at the Revolutionary War Visitors Center in Camden on June 13 and 14.
Participants took part in idea sharing, promoting upcoming county-sponsored events across the state, and learned about the next steps in SC250’s plan to educate, engage and inspire South Carolinians and visitors. County delegates also received a special video message of gratitude from Governor Henry McMaster.
“We are thrilled by the success of ‘The Gathering’ and the representation of 40 counties from across South Carolina while marking a pivotal event in the state and nation’s history,” said Molly Fortune, SC250’s executive director. “This groundbreaking meeting allowed us to gather county delegates, who are doing the work of helping everyone rediscover the Revolution throughout our state.”
“The Gathering” was modeled after a historically significant meeting which took place on July 6, 1774. Nearly 250 years ago, a large group of South Carolina planters, merchants and mechanics gathered at the Exchange Building in Charleston in response to the oppressive “Intolerable Acts” and the dire situation in Boston.
One of the most notable outcomes of that historic General Meeting was the formation of the Committee of 99. This committee, comprising 30 Charleston merchants and mechanics and 69 planters from across the colony, was established to implement the resolutions and maintain correspondence with other colonies. Later that fall, the Committee of 99 would elect delegates to the Continental Congress.
The formation of the Committee of 99 signified an early step toward South Carolina's journey toward self-governance and eventual independence from British rule.
“We look forward to continued collaboration with our County 250 committees as we work together to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution in South Carolina,” said Fortune. “Our shared efforts will ensure that South Carolina's significant contributions to America's independence are commemorated and remembered for generations to come.”
Established by the state General Assembly, SC250 is dedicated to commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Revolutionary era and showcasing South Carolina's significant contributions to securing America’s independence. The commission's mission is to celebrate and promote South Carolina’s pivotal role in the American Revolution through heritage tourism, rural economic growth initiatives and educational programs.
South Carolinians interested in joining SC250 on its mission are invited to join a local committee. To connect to a County 250 committee, or to learn more, visit southcarolina250.com/local-county-250-committee/connect-to-a-committee/. For more information about SC250 and its initiatives, please visit CelebrateSC250.com.
