Legare Gravesite is Designated a Literary Landmark

United for Libraries Literary Landmark Register plaque

The gravesite of Poet James Mathewes Legare at the St. Thaddeus Episcopal Church church in Aiken is now one of six literary landmarks designated in South Carolina. These sites are listed on the National Historic Registry through United for Libraries, an affiliate of the American Library Association. Although the April 18 ceremony to induct Legare into the South Carolina Literary Hall of Fame was cancelled because of the current health crisis, Legare’s name was added to the list of distinguished writers.  In partnership with the Friends of South Carolina Libraries and the South Carolina Academy of Authors, the State Library financed the marker, which makes note of Legare’s book of verse entitled “Orta Undis” or “Sprung from Waves.”

Upcoming Event

Douglas Day Flyer.

Douglass Day 2026

February 13, 2026, 11:00 AM

Douglass Day is an annual program that marks the birth of Frederick Douglass. Each year, thousands of people gather to help create new & freely available resources for learning about Black history. Join the South Carolina State Library at the South Carolina State Museum's fourth annual celebration.