Irmo, September 18, 2025
News Summary
The Town of Irmo has unveiled a historical marker celebrating Judge Harold Boulware, a significant civil rights attorney. Located at Lake Murray Dam, the marker honors Boulware’s legacy, including his role in the Briggs v. Elliott case, which contributed to the end of school segregation in the U.S. The unveiling, supported by the African American Historical Society of Irmo, aims to educate the community on Boulware’s contributions and the broader civil rights movement.
Irmo, South Carolina – On September 17, 2025, the Town of Irmo unveiled a historical marker honoring the legacy of Judge Harold Boulware, a prominent civil rights attorney and a pivotal figure in the fight for equality in education. The marker is strategically placed on the Irmo side of the Lake Murray Dam, located outside Boulware’s former residence at 101 Lake Murray Blvd.
Judge Boulware, who served as the chief attorney for the South Carolina NAACP in 1941, is best known for his involvement in the Briggs v. Elliott case. This landmark case, which he filed and served local counsel on, played a pivotal role in the larger case of Brown v. Board of Education. This Supreme Court case ultimately led to the dismantling of school segregation across the United States.
Beyond his contributions to significant court cases, Boulware fought for equal pay for African American teachers in South Carolina. His commitment to civil rights was further exemplified in his judicial career; Boulware became the first African American associate judge of the Columbia Municipal Court and served within the Richland County Judicial System.
Despite his strides in the fight for equality and justice, Boulware faced numerous challenges during his career, including threats of violence against him and his family from groups such as the Ku Klux Klan. Reports reveal that Boulware often had to take extreme precautions to ensure his safety. His resilience in the face of such threats has been highlighted by his family, who recounted incidents where he had to hide in car trunks to escape potential harm.
The unveiling of the historical marker has been endorsed by the African American Historical Society of Irmo, which underscores the importance of recognizing Boulware’s contributions in preserving his legacy and educating the community. The historical marker aims to raise awareness among individuals commuting through the area, ensuring that they understand the impact of Boulware’s work and the significance of his role in American history.
Overall, the marker serves as a reminder of the long-standing fight for civil rights and the key figures, like Harold Boulware, who have shaped the landscape of equality in the United States.
Key Achievements of Judge Harold Boulware
- Chief Attorney for the South Carolina NAACP in 1941.
- Local counsel in the Briggs v. Elliott case.
- First African American associate judge of Columbia Municipal Court.
- Advocate for equal pay for African American teachers.
Impact of the Historical Marker
- Located at 101 Lake Murray Blvd, Irmo.
- Aims to educate and raise awareness about Boulware’s contributions.
- Supported by the African American Historical Society of Irmo.
Context of Civil Rights Movement
Judge Harold Boulware’s legal work and efforts were integral to the broader civil rights movement in South Carolina and the nation. His participation in significant cases helped challenge and change unjust laws that upheld racial segregation within educational institutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the historical marker for Judge Harold Boulware unveiled?
The historical marker honoring Judge Harold Boulware was unveiled on September 17, 2025.
What major legal case was Judge Boulware involved in?
Judge Boulware was involved in the Briggs v. Elliott case, which was part of the Brown v. Board of Education case.
What was Judge Boulware’s role in the South Carolina NAACP?
He served as the chief attorney for the South Carolina NAACP in 1941.
What challenges did Judge Boulware face during his career?
He faced threats of violence from groups like the Ku Klux Klan and had to take extreme precautions for his safety.
Key Features of Judge Harold Boulware
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Unveiling Date | September 17, 2025 |
| Significant Legal Case | Briggs v. Elliott |
| Organization Role | Chief Attorney for South Carolina NAACP in 1941 |
| Judicial Position | First African American associate judge of Columbia Municipal Court |
| Community Impact | Advocated for equal pay for African American teachers |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Central South Carolina Experiences Extreme Heat Wave
Irmo Unveils Historical Marker for Civil Rights Icon Harold Boulware, Sr.
Irmo Honors Judge Harold R. Boulware Sr. with Historical Marker
Additional Resources
- ABC Columbia
- WIS TV
- SW Lex Ledger
- Cola Daily
- ABC News 4
- Wikipedia: Civil Rights Movement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Civil Rights Movement
- Google Search: Judge Harold Boulware
- Google Scholar: Brown v. Board of Education
- Google News: Judge Harold Boulware
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.
