Clemson University, August 26, 2025
News Summary
Clemson University has inaugurated a new 17-foot-tall gate at Cemetery Hill, designed by Robert Thomas Iron Design. The gate marks the entrance to a historic site encompassing three cemeteries, including distinct burial grounds for African Americans and the Calhoun family. Its artistic design symbolizes growth and remembrance, aiming to elevate the significance of the cemetery as a reflective space rather than just a thoroughfare for students. The project highlights efforts to honor both marked and unmarked graves, acknowledging the contributions of diverse individuals in the university’s history.
North Charleston – A new 17-foot-tall gate has been installed at Cemetery Hill, Clemson University, marking the formal entrance to the historic site that houses three cemeteries. Designed and crafted by Robert Thomas Iron Design, a blacksmith studio located in North Charleston, the gate features intricate, swirling designs and serves to evoke a sense of history and remembrance amongst visitors.
Cemetery Hill encompasses three distinct burial grounds: an African American burial site, the Andrew P. Calhoun family plot, and Woodland Cemetery. The significance of the gate extends beyond its artistic beauty; it aims to foster recognition of the area as a place of remembrance rather than as a mere cut-through for students or tailgating location.
The Calhoun family plot contains the remains of Andrew Pickens Calhoun, who was the son of influential politician John C. Calhoun, along with his descendants. Woodland Cemetery, on the other hand, was established as a segregated burial site for White employees at Clemson University and contains nearly 600 marked graves.
Recent efforts have revealed over 500 unmarked graves believed to belong to Black individuals who contributed to the university’s development. This includes enslaved people, sharecroppers, convict laborers, and families associated with the university. The Cemetery Hill research team, led by Professor Rhondda Thomas, is conducting genealogical research and planning initiatives such as tours and workshops on historic preservation to further recognize this important burial site.
The new gate’s design prominently features a bouquet of three calla lilies, symbolizing the distinct burial grounds at Cemetery Hill and embodying themes of growth, peace, and new beginnings. The crafting process for the flowers took around a month, focusing on both aesthetics and functionality, including considerations for adequate water drainage.
Robert Thomas Iron Design employs traditional blacksmithing techniques, with each piece of the gate handmade at their shop, located on the historic Charleston Naval Base. Craftsmen utilize tools and equipment often aged between 70 to 100 years, creating custom tools specifically for each project.
Eric Doesburg, the company’s CFO and a Clemson graduate, expressed a personal attachment to the gate project, revealing that it deepened his understanding of the university’s storied past. The gate has quickly become a focal point for visitor reflection, inviting people to pause and appreciate the significance of the cemetery grounds.
A ceremony to unveil the gate took place in the spring of 2025, showcasing the collaboration between Clemson University and Robert Thomas Iron Design. Apart from the cemetery gate, the company also specializes in producing a variety of everyday items, including cookware.
Key Features of the Cemetery Hill Gate Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Height | 17 feet |
| Materials | Hand-forged iron |
| Design Elements | Intricate swirling designs; three calla lilies |
| Historical Significance | Entrance to three cemeteries, recognition of unmarked graves |
| Craftsmanship | Traditional blacksmithing techniques, handmade |
| Collaboration | Clemson University and Robert Thomas Iron Design |
FAQ
What is Cemetery Hill at Clemson University?
Cemetery Hill is a significant historic site encompassing three distinct cemeteries, including an African American burial ground, the Calhoun family plot, and Woodland Cemetery.
Who designed and crafted the new gate?
The gate was designed and crafted by Robert Thomas Iron Design, a blacksmith studio based in North Charleston.
What do the calla lilies on the gate represent?
The three calla lilies represent the distinct burial grounds at Cemetery Hill, symbolizing growth, peace, and new beginnings.
What historical aspects does the cemetery recognize?
The cemetery recognizes both marked and unmarked graves, including those of Black individuals, enslaved people, and various laborers who contributed to Clemson University’s growth.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Controversy Erupts at Arlington National Cemetery as Trump’s Political Visit Sparks Backlash
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: North Charleston Blacksmith
- Veranda: Charleston Preservationists
- Garden & Gun: Blacksmithing
- Charleston Business: Ironware Company HQ
- Wikipedia: Clemson University
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