News Summary
This weekend, Irmo, South Carolina, will dedicate a historical marker at a mass grave for 120 enslaved individuals, alongside their enslavers, marking a significant moment for the community. This event emphasizes reflection and reconciliation regarding a painful past as community members gather to honor their history and promote healing.
Irmo, South Carolina to Unveil Historical Marker for Enslaved Ancestors
This weekend, all eyes will be on Irmo, South Carolina as the community comes together to honor a significant piece of history—a new historical marker will be dedicated at the site of a mass grave that holds the remains of 120 enslaved individuals alongside the family that enslaved them. This event provides an opportunity for reflection, remembrance, and reconciliation in the face of a painful past.
A Hidden Chapter Unearthed
The poignant story of this site began in 2001 when the remains were discovered during construction for an auto dealership on land formerly known as the Lorick Plantation, located near the busy intersection of I-26 and Broad River Road. The project was halted as workers stumbled upon something that would change the community’s understanding of its own history.
Following this monumental discovery, the remains were carefully excavated, moved, and reinterred at the Bookman Cemetery, which is part of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church. This cemetery lies adjacent to the church’s historic sanctuary, which has stood since the late 1800s. In a solemn worship service held on August 8, 2001, the reinterment was officiated by local clergy, marking a moment of deep significance for both the living descendants and the spirits of those laid to rest.
Bridging Generations and Cultures
Fast forward to last year, when a powerful gathering took place at Bookman Cemetery, uniting the descendants of both the Lorick family and those who were enslaved under their ownership. For many of them, this was a first-time meeting, creating bonds of understanding and a shared commitment to acknowledging a complex and often painful heritage.
Speaker with a Purpose
This year, the dedication ceremony will feature a special guest speaker, Hannah Drake, who is not only a direct descendant of the Lorick family but also the co-founder of the ambitious (Un)known Project. This initiative strives to recognize and document the gravesites of formerly enslaved individuals while fostering much-needed reconciliation and healing in the community.
Community Involvement Welcome
Pastor Scott Holland of Bethlehem Lutheran Church has expressed that this year’s service will incorporate the spirit of past gatherings while working toward healing the community’s shared histories. Everyone is warmly invited to join this reflective event, as it promotes awareness and fosters dialogue about the community’s history in an open and welcoming setting.
The dedication ceremony will kick off with a shuttle bus service departing from Bethlehem Lutheran Church at 2:30 p.m. on April 27, ensuring that anyone wishing to attend will have easy access to the marker. This communal atmosphere promises to emphasize unity and shared healing, allowing attendees to connect over both triumphs and tribulations faced throughout the community’s past.
A Call to Remember
Mark your calendars and be part of this important moment in Irmo’s ongoing journey toward recognizing and honoring its roots. As the new marker is unveiled, might it stand not only as a testament to those who have passed but also as a beacon for future generations striving for a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of our shared history.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Irmo Church Marker for Enslaved Lorick Plantation
- The State: Historical Marker for Enslaved Ancestors in Irmo
- WPDE: USC Civil Rights Center to Reveal Historical Marker
- Wikipedia: Slavery in the United States
- Encyclopedia Britannica: American Civil War
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington 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 Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. 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, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
