Legare Gravesite is Designated a Literary Landmark

United for Libraries Literary Landmark Register plaque

The gravesite of Poet James Mathewes Legare at the St. Thaddeus Episcopal Church church in Aiken is now one of six literary landmarks designated in South Carolina. These sites are listed on the National Historic Registry through United for Libraries, an affiliate of the American Library Association. Although the April 18 ceremony to induct Legare into the South Carolina Literary Hall of Fame was cancelled because of the current health crisis, Legare’s name was added to the list of distinguished writers.  In partnership with the Friends of South Carolina Libraries and the South Carolina Academy of Authors, the State Library financed the marker, which makes note of Legare’s book of verse entitled “Orta Undis” or “Sprung from Waves.”

Upcoming Event

By John Blake White, Wikimedia Commons

Speaker at the Center Series: An American Revolution Panel Discussion

July 16, 2026, 2:30 PM

Join us for our next Speaker at the Center event, where six panelists will explore the history of the American Revolution. Even 250 years after America gained independence, historians and experts continue to debate key questions. Come listen as they use artifacts and primary sources to clarify the facts in these discussions.