Irmo, South Carolina, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Irmo, South Carolina, will pay tribute to Judge Harold R. Boulware Sr. during a special event on September 16, featuring the unveiling of a historical marker. This event will celebrate Boulware’s significant contributions to civil rights and public service, gathering the community for reflection and inspiration. A reception will follow at Midlands Technical College.
Irmo, South Carolina will pay tribute to its native son, Judge Harold R. Boulware Sr., during a special commemoration event on September 16, 2025. The event, which will begin at 10:00 a.m., will include the unveiling of a South Carolina Historical Marker in honor of Boulware’s significant contributions to civil rights and public service. The gathering will take place at 131 Lake Murray Boulevard, Irmo, SC 29063, with transportation to the site commencing at 9:00 a.m.. The commemoration is expected to last approximately one hour.
Judge Harold R. Boulware Sr. was a noteworthy figure in the fight for civil rights in the United States. Born in Irmo, Boulware attended local institutions such as Harbison Agricultural Institute and furthered his education at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Howard University School of Law in Washington, D.C. It was at Howard that he had the opportunity to learn from influential civil rights leaders like Thurgood Marshall and Charles Hamilton Houston. These formative experiences shaped his commitment to social justice and equality.
In 1941, Boulware made history by becoming the Chief Attorney for the South Carolina NAACP. His leadership was instrumental in the Briggs v. Elliott case, which was pivotal to the landmark Supreme Court decision in Brown v. Board of Education, which effectively ended racial segregation in public schools. Later, in 1969, he made headlines again as the first African American Associate Judge for the Columbia Municipal Court. He continued his service within the Richland County Judicial System, where he earned respect for his fairness, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to justice.
The upcoming event in Irmo will not only honor Judge Boulware’s legacy but also serve as a moment for the community to reflect on the progress of civil rights and the continuing work that lies ahead. Following the unveiling of the historical marker, there will be a reception from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Midlands Technical College – Harbison Theatre, located at 7300 College Street, Irmo, SC 29063. Refreshments will be provided, and members of the community, including local leaders and residents, are encouraged to attend and celebrate Boulware’s remarkable contributions.
This event is a significant occasion for the town of Irmo, allowing residents to honor a trailblazer whose efforts have positively impacted countless lives. Judge Boulware’s legacy inspires current and future generations to continue striving for equality and justice in their communities.
Event Details
- Date: September 16, 2025
- Time: 10:00 a.m. (Transportation starts at 9:00 a.m.)
- Location: 131 Lake Murray Boulevard, Irmo, SC 29063
- Reception: 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Midlands Technical College – Harbison Theatre
About Judge Harold R. Boulware Sr.
- Birthplace: Irmo, South Carolina
- Education: Harbison Agricultural Institute, Johnson C. Smith University, Howard University School of Law
- Key Roles: Chief Attorney for South Carolina NAACP, First African American Associate Judge for Columbia Municipal Court
- Notable Contributions: Involvement in Briggs v. Elliott, advocacy for civil rights
Community Involvement
Residents and local leaders are invited to join in recognizing the crucial role Judge Harold R. Boulware Sr. played in promoting civil rights and fostering justice within the community. This event aims to educate and inspire future advocates for equality.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of the event?
- The event commemorates Judge Harold R. Boulware Sr.’s contributions to civil rights and public service, including the unveiling of a historical marker in his honor.
- When is the event taking place?
- The event is scheduled for September 16, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., with transportation starting at 9:00 a.m.
- Where is the event happening?
- The event will take place at 131 Lake Murray Boulevard, Irmo, SC 29063.
- Will there be a reception following the event?
- Yes, a reception will follow from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at Midlands Technical College – Harbison Theatre, where refreshments will be served.
- Who is invited to the event?
- The community, including local leaders and residents, is invited to join in celebrating Judge Boulware’s legacy.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Event | September 16, 2025 |
| Start Time | 10:00 a.m. (Transportation begins at 9:00 a.m.) |
| Location | 131 Lake Murray Boulevard, Irmo, SC 29063 |
| Reception Time | 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM |
| Significance | Unveiling of a Historical Marker and celebration of Judge Boulware’s contributions |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- SW Lex Ledger: Irmo Invites the Community to Unveil a Historical Marker for Judge Boulware
- Wikipedia: Civil Rights
- ABC News 4: Historic Black Irmo Cemetery Restored from 1800s
- Google Search: Judge Harold R. Boulware
- WIS TV: Irmo Mayor Vows to Maintain Historic Cemetery
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Briggs v. Elliott
- The State: Community News on Irmo
- Google News: Irmo South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, 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 Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. 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.
