| | | | | | A Nonprofit Membership Organization Working for South Carolinians Since 1990.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | Adopt a Piece of History The Dawkins House | |
Dear Friend,
Preservation South Carolina, in collaboration with the Union–Laurens Commission for Higher Education, University of South Carolina Union (“USCU”), and Timken Company, has announced a campaign to preserve and restore the historic Dawkins House—one of South Carolina’s most significant, but little known, historical landmarks.
Located on the campus of USCU in Union, South Carolina, the Dawkins House holds a unique place in the state’s history. Built in 1845 by Judge Thomas Dawkins, it was added onto a smaller pre-existing house constructed around 1765 during the Revolutionary War era, which remains intact. During the final months of the American Civil War, the Dawkins House served as South Carolina’s provisional state capitol. From February 16th to April 9, 1865, Governor Andrew Magrath conducted the affairs of state from the home after the government evacuated Columbia during the Burning of Columbia. Magrath was in the Dawkins House when he was informed of the southern army’s surrender at Appomattox. Today, the Dawkins House stands as the only surviving building—besides the South Carolina State House in Columbia—to have served as the seat of South Carolina’s government.
Through generations, it has borne witness to the people, stories, events and craftsmanship that shaped our state. Today, through the Dawkins House Preservation Campaign, we have a remarkable opportunity to restore this irreplaceable landmark and ensure its legacy continues for generations to come.
| | | | | | | | Adopt a Piece of History Through our Adopt-a-Feature Program, individuals and organizations can directly support the restoration of specific architectural elements—from the grand staircase to historic windows, from porches to interior spaces.
Every contribution makes a tangible impact. Sponsor a chimney brick for just $50 and leave a permanent mark on this historic home Restore a window and preserve the craftsmanship of the past Support the roof and help protect the structure for years to come Sponsor a room or defining feature and leave a lasting legacy
Several opportunities have already been claimed, including the Front Porch and Side Porch, and others are quickly filling.
Momentum is Building With a campaign goal of $845,000, we have already raised $206,000 - an encouraging start made by the generosity of early supporters. But there is still important work ahead—and many opportunities to make your mark.
Whether you choose to sponsor a major architectural feature or contribute at a community level, your support is essential to bringing this project to life.
Make Your Mark This is more than a restoration effort—it is a chance to preserve and protect a piece of our shared history and make it functional for future generations.
View restoration opportunities at the link below, or on our website. | | | | | | | |
Honoring a Legacy: The Jeffries Commons at Dawkins House | To recognize the extraordinary, lifelong contributions of Coach Willie Jeffries and Mrs. Mary Jeffries—natives of Union and nearby Lancaster—Preservation SC and the Union-Laurens Commission for Higher Education have announced a meaningful new chapter for this historic landmark. The restored Dawkins House will be formally named “The Willie and Mary Jeffries Commons at Dawkins House.” | | | |
This designation celebrates a legacy defined by character, leadership, and impact. Willie and Mary Jeffries embody values that continue to inspire students, educators, and business leaders alike:
- A spirit of drive and perseverance—rising from humble beginnings to break barriers in academics, athletics, and life with grace and dignity
- A deep commitment to education, youth, and community service
- Leadership grounded in humility, loyalty, and gratitude
- A passion for mentorship, creating opportunities and lifting others along the way
Importantly, this new name does not replace the historic identity of the Dawkins House. Rather, it introduces a functional name that reflects the building’s renewed purpose, while preserving its historic significance for generations to come.
The term “Commons” reflects a shared and vibrant space—one designed to bring people together. Located on the USC Union campus, the Commons will serve as a hub for connection and collaboration, where students, faculty, and corporate partners can gather for networking, professional development, meetings, and special events. It will be a place where ideas are exchanged, partnerships are formed, and innovation is fostered.
The story of Willie and Mary Jeffries aligns with the vision of this project: to honor the past while inspiring the future. As the Dawkins House enters this new era, it stands not only as a preserved historic structure, but as a dynamic space where the next generation of leaders will be shaped. | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Preservation South Carolina1109 Broad Street, 2H Camden, SC 29020803.729.7782 | | | | You are receiving this email as you signed up for our newsletters. Want to change how you receive these emails?
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