Charleston, SC, August 6, 2025
News Summary
Residents of Charleston are voicing their opposition to the College of Charleston’s proposal to construct a new dormitory at a site overlaying a historic cemetery. This cemetery, which served as a burial ground from 1794 to 1807, is the resting place of over 4,000 individuals. The community has expressed concerns regarding the dignity of those interred and the decision to prioritize student housing over historical preservation. A coalition has formed to advocate for the respect of the cemetery’s history amidst the college’s plans for development.
Charleston Residents Voice Opposition to College of Charleston’s Dormitory Plans on Historic Cemetery
Charleston, SC – The College of Charleston has announced plans to construct a new residence hall at 106 Coming St., a site that overlays a historic cemetery. This cemetery, which functioned as a burial ground from 1794 to 1807, held the remains of more than 4,000 individuals, including enslaved and free Black people, poor White individuals, orphans, and transient visitors. The proposed construction has drawn significant community backlash.
On August 4, 2025, over 100 individuals attended a community meeting to express their outrage over the proposed project. Attendees included local residents, college faculty, students, and preservationists, all of whom voiced their concerns regarding the dignity of those interred at the site and the college’s prioritization of student housing over historical preservation.
A coalition named “Protect and Respect the Bodies” has since been formed to oppose the construction, emphasizing the need for thoughtful engagement with the cemetery’s history. The new dormitory is designed to alleviate a housing shortage on campus caused by record enrollment numbers, with plans for the facility to offer between 600 and 1,000 beds.
Project Timeline and Community Concerns
Construction is slated to commence in September 2026, with progress expected to span two phases, completing by July 2029. Community members are voicing concerns about the expedited timeline for archaeological assessments necessary to evaluate the burial site thoroughly. Many participants at the meeting urged the college to consider alternative locations for the dormitory and reflect on the ethical implications of building over graves.
College officials stated that they are committed to conducting initial geotechnical assessments and involving historians, archaeologists, and preservationists in the evaluation process moving forward. They assured that any human remains uncovered during construction would be treated with respect and properly reburied, although a specific reburial site has not yet been identified.
Civil Rights Movement Connection
Prominent figures from the civil rights movement, including Millicent Brown, have also protested the proposed project, reinforcing the significance of the cemetery and its historical context. Additionally, the 60-year-old YWCA building on the property has also been approved for demolition, despite its own historical relevance to the civil rights movement.
Next Steps
The next community meeting regarding the project is scheduled for September 22, 2025, where residents will have further opportunities to express their views and gather more information about the steps the college plans to take regarding the proposed dormitory.
Project Cost
The College of Charleston has already invested approximately $28 million in the property and anticipates the total cost for the dormitory project to range between $100 million and $160 million.
Summary
As the College moves forward with its plans, the community continues to advocate for the respect and consideration owed to the historic cemetery and the legacy of those interred there. Ongoing discussions and evaluations will determine the fate of the proposed residence hall amidst growing calls for preservation and ethical development.
FAQ
Why is there opposition to the dormitory construction?
Community members are concerned about building on a site that is a historic cemetery, which served as a burial ground for over 4,000 individuals from various backgrounds.
What type of housing will the new dormitory provide?
The Planned dormitory aims to provide between 600 to 1,000 beds to accommodate an increasing number of students.
When is construction scheduled to begin?
Construction is set to begin in September 2026, with an anticipated completion date in July 2029.
How many community members attended the meeting regarding the project?
Over 100 individuals attended the community meeting on August 4, 2025, to voice their concerns over the proposed project.
Project Details Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 106 Coming St., Charleston, SC |
| Cemetery History | Burial ground from 1794 to 1807, over 4,000 remains |
| Construction Start | September 2026 |
| Estimated Completion | July 2029 |
| Bed Capacity | 600 to 1,000 beds |
| Total Project Cost | $100 million to $160 million |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charleston Expands Housing with New Coming Street Commons Project
College of Charleston Announces New Student Housing Project
Upcoming Events in Charleston, South Carolina
College of Charleston Plans New Student Residence Complex
Charleston Set to Demolish Historic YWCA for New Dormitory
Upcoming Summer Events in Charleston
Charleston Approves Demolition of Historic YWCA for New Dormitory
College of Charleston Approves Demolition of YWCA Building
College of Charleston Moves to Demolish Historic YWCA Building
College of Charleston Plans Demolition of Historic YWCA Building
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Tensions at College of Charleston over New Dorm on Historic Cemetery
- Live 5 News: Coalition Pushes Back Against CofC Housing Project
- ABC News 4: Charleston Residents Oppose Dormitory on Historic Burial Ground
- Count On 2: City Approves College of Charleston Request to Demolish Former YWCA Building
- Wikipedia: Cemetery
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