News Summary
Spartanburg has officially unveiled the Southside Cultural Monument, honoring the significant contributions of Black leaders in the Southside neighborhood. The monument, with 37 panels showcasing historical narratives including education, faith, and civic leadership, aims to educate and inspire future generations. Funded through state and private donations, it features notable figures like Mary H. Wright and Tony Fisher. The ceremony was attended by over 200 community members, reflecting a strong celebration of Black cultural heritage in Spartanburg.
Spartanburg Unveils Monument Celebrating Black History and Leadership
Spartanburg has unveiled the Southside Cultural Monument, a significant addition to the city’s landscape, which honors the Black history and leadership of the Southside neighborhood. The monument was officially presented to the public on June 14, 2025, at the intersection of South Converse Street and Hudson Barksdale Boulevard.
Comprising 37 panels made up of photographs, illustrations, and text, the monument is designed to shed light on the critical contributions made by influential Black figures in the community. The 150-foot design incorporates themes of education, faith, civic leadership, and the arts, showcasing a wide array of historical narratives that have shaped the Southside neighborhood. The panels can be backlit to ensure visibility at all hours, and their replaceable and interchangeable features will allow for the inclusion of new information over time.
The project, initiated by State Representative Rosalyn Henderson-Myers, drew inspiration from a cultural wall in Columbus, Ohio, and it aims to inspire younger generations by spotlighting the rich history and potential of the Southside community. The completion of the monument was made possible through a combination of $1.3 million in state funding and private donations, reflecting a community effort to recognize its cultural legacy.
Honoring Community Leaders
Among those honored at the monument are historic figures such as Mary H. Wright, a teacher and the namesake of Mary H. Wright Elementary School, and C.C. Woodson, who served as principal of Cummings Street and Carver High School and is memorialized by the C.C. Woodson Community Center.
Other prominent individuals recognized include Tony Fisher, the first African American director of public safety in Spartanburg, and Donald Beatty, a notable former Chief Justice of the South Carolina Supreme Court. The legacy of Tim Hosley, a former Major League Baseball player, is also featured, demonstrating the diverse contributions of Black leaders from various fields.
A Community Celebration
The unveiling ceremony drew over 200 attendees, including former students from the Southside area who came to celebrate their heritage. Former Mayor James Talley and other local leaders played instrumental roles in the development of the monument, ensuring that it represents the community’s rich history and the vital impact of Black culture in Spartanburg.
As the city seeks to preserve the stories of Black history amid systemic neglect, the monument serves as a beacon of hope and pride for residents. It features a blend of names from various sectors—including artists, business leaders, and civic figures—accompanied by significant local historical events and places.
Future Plans for Education and Engagement
In addition to honoring the past, plans are underway to create an outdoor classroom adjacent to the monument. This educational space will feature interactive displays related to Southside history, further engaging the community and enhancing public understanding of the neighborhood’s cultural significance.
Overall, the Southside Cultural Monument marks a pivotal step toward recognizing and celebrating Spartanburg’s Black community. By immortalizing the contributions of its leaders and fostering educational opportunities, the monument aims to uplift future generations while reinforcing the importance of historical awareness and cultural pride.
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Additional Resources
- Go Upstate: Spartanburg’s Black History Comes Alive
- Google Search: Southside Cultural Monument Spartanburg
- WSPA: Monument to Honor Black Culture Unveiled
- Wikipedia: Black History
- Post and Courier: Southside Cultural Monument Spartanburg
- Encyclopedia Britannica: African American History
- Fox Carolina: Southside Cultural Monument Revealed
- Duke Energy: Celebrates Black History Month
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
