The property known today as Connemara not only offers inspiration and enjoyment, but has a long and complicated history. The property was developed and the house built in 1838 by a slave owner who served in the Confederate government, and had leading role in South Carolina's resconstruction policies. The next two owners were prominent businessmen, who also played a role in maintaining racial segregation after reconstruction. Then in 1945, over a century later, a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet and biographer of Abraham Lincoln purchased the property. While living here, Carl Sandburg received a lifetime membership from the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) for his work in civil rights. He was also awarded a Pulitizer Prize for his Complete Poems, which includes many works on social justice and labor rights. |
Last updated: August 21, 2023