Alfred Rush Fought for Free Education and University Access for Former Slaves and Women as South Carolina’s First Black Representative

Historic Marker Honoring Alfred Rush Is Destroyed

A monument honoring South Carolina’s first Black state representative, Alfred Rush, was recently destroyed in Florence County.
The marker stood near the site where Rush was assassinated in 1876. Officials are still gathering details about the incident.

The marker had been in place since 2006. It was located at the intersection of W. John Paul Jones and Cummings roads, placed by the Florence County Historical Commission.

Alfred Rush Was a Voice for Justice During Reconstruction

Rush served in the South Carolina General Assembly during two important terms: 1868–1870 and 1874–1876.
He represented what was then Darlington County, speaking for Black citizens during a tense post-Civil War era.

Despite threats to his life, Rush kept pushing forward. He worked to make sure every citizen had the same rights and access to public services.

Champion for Free Education for All

One of Rush’s biggest achievements was helping to create South Carolina’s public school system.
He pushed for laws that gave free education to all children, no matter their race or background.

His efforts helped open the door for future generations. Many families who had been denied education during slavery gained access for the first time.

He Helped Open the University of South Carolina to the Marginalized

Rush also worked to give former slaves and women the right to attend the University of South Carolina.
This was a bold step at the time, as higher education was mostly limited to white males.

By supporting inclusion, Rush helped shape a new South Carolina where knowledge could be shared by all.

Tragic Death Silenced a Bold Leader

On May 13, 1876, Alfred Rush and his wife were ambushed by an unknown gunman.
They were returning home from a picnic at Mt. Carmel Church near Timmonsville when the attack happened.

His death marked a painful moment in South Carolina’s history. Though his life was cut short, his work still speaks loudly today.

His Legacy Still Lives in Local Education

In 2014, Florence One Schools honored his name by renaming the former Byrnes School as Alfred Rush Academy.
The school now stands as a living reminder of his dream—equal education for all.

Though the historical marker is gone, efforts are underway to make sure his legacy continues to inspire.