By Betsy Finklea
The unveiling ceremony of the National Register Historic Plaque for the historic Latimer High and Elementary School was held today (Friday morning, October 4th) on the lawn of the school.
Norris Barr-Mack was the presider. He welcomed everyone to this special occasion. He expressed his happiness that God had blessed them to come this far.
Ms. Carolyn McDaniel, chairman of the Latimer Historic School Committee, called on Rev. William Walker of St. John Missionary Baptist Church for prayer. McDaniel then offered her remarks.
She thanked everyone for coming to this momentous occasion, and said “it has indeed been a journey of faith.” She talked about the Latimer School’s rich history that spans 135 years. She said the National Historic Register Honor is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a building. She said Dillon County can be proud.
McDaniel said this is not the end; there is a long way to go. She said they want to preserve the history of this school and let the young people know the history.
She said they have a grant to preserve the history of the Latimer School. She said they want to document the stories of this school. She said she would like their input on what the school could be used for. “It is a part of our history, a part of our heritage,” McDaniel said.
Remarks were also given by Dillon County Council Chairwoman Detrice Dawkins; Dr. Christopher Daniels, President of the Dillon County Historical Society; Rep. Jackie Hayes, State Representative District 55; and Senator Kent Williams, Senate District 30. (Note: Their remarks as well as the complete remarks of all speakers can be seen in the video below.)
Judge James E. Lockemy spoke about the history of equalization schools. He spoke about Lewis Howard Latimer, the namesake of this school. He said we have things and people to be proud of in Dillon County. “Let’s believe we can fly into the future,” said Lockemy.
Mrs. Jackie F. Page sang a beautiful rendition of “I Believe I Can Fly.”
Former Latta Town Councilwoman Melinda Robinson introduced the speaker, Mrs. Deloris Pringle, chairwoman of the Historic Penn Center, St. Helena Island, South Carolina. She spoke about the Historic Penn Center. She spoke about the significance of preservation and the preservation of historic schools. She made a very interesting presentation.
Latta Town Administrator Daniel Mack Rogers and Latta Town Councilman Abbott Shelley unveiled the plaques. One will be placed at the end of the school near the gym and the other will be placed at the CareSouth entrance. Prior to the unveiling, Rogers made some brief comments.
Latta Mayor Pro-Tem Lizzie Crawford offered closing remarks. Prior to the closing prayer, Lockemy presented McDaniel with a special coin for her excellent efforts.
Rev. Leonard Simmons of Weston Chapel AME Church offered the closing prayer.
Several gathered in the foyer of the gym after the program for refreshments and fellowship.
VIDEO: Latimer School Unveiling Ceremony Of National Register Historic Plaque
PHOTO GALLERY
Photos by Betsy Finklea/The Dillon County News, LLC
Click to enlarge the photo.
