The Enigmatic Burial of Calhoun in Charleston

John C. Calhoun, a prominent American statesman, died in Washington D.C. in 1850 but was buried in a peculiar location in Charleston, South Carolina. The intriguing journey of his remains from Washington to Charleston and the various gravesites he has occupied since is a fascinating tale. This essay explores the reasons behind the burial in the Charleston graveyard and the events that led to his multiple burials.

The Initial Burial in Washington D.C.

Calhoun, a significant figure in American politics, passed away in Washington D.C. upon his return from a significant visit to his son in South Carolina. However, his place of burial was not the final resting spot intended by his family and admirers. He was originally interred at the Shepherd’s Chapel Cemetery in the District of Columbia.

The Grand Funeral and Exhumation to Charleston

Not one to be buried in anonymity, Calhoun’s family and supporters organized a grand funeral parade in Charleston. The remains were exhumed and transported to the western or the “stranger's graveyard,” a section set aside for those who died temporarily on visits or business. This section of the graveyard received its name due to the decision of the 1760s congregation to reserve a part for people who did not have a permanent residence in Charleston. In those times, it was common practice not to ship the bodies home.

The Civil War Maneuvering

The Civil War brought a curious twist to Calhoun’s burial. After his body was moved to the western cemetery, it was exhumed once more and placed in an unmarked part of the eastern graveyard. This placement was a precautionary measure, aimed at protecting his remains from desecration by Union troops. The eastern graveyard is often referred to as the “friendly graveyard” from the legend that it is reserved for members of the congregation who were born in Charleston. This temporary placement of Calhoun’s body is a testament to the political and social complexities of the era.

The Post-War Reburial and Memorial

Following the war, Calhoun was again given a proper reburial site. In the 1880s, his remains were moved again to its current location and a massive monument was erected in his honor. This monument serves both as a tribute to Calhoun and as a reminder of his significance in American history.

The Modern Controversies and Excavations

Even in the 1960s, the journey of Calhoun’s remains was not complete. A conspiracy theory emerged suggesting that his body was exhumed by a group called STORCH “striving to return Calhoun home,” who wished to lay him to rest with his wife Floride in the upstate. Concerns were raised, and probes were conducted, but the grave remained undisturbed. Nevertheless, the legend of continuous movements and investigations surrounding Calhoun’s grave reveals the enduring fascination with his legacy.

Conclusion

The burial of John C. Calhoun in Charleston is a fascinating story that reflects the social, political, and historical contexts of the 19th and 20th centuries in the United States. Each reburial and each monument built to honor him represents a crucial moment in the interpretation and perpetuation of his legacy.