Robert Smalls Statue, Beaufort

The Robert Smalls Statue was erected in 1876 to honor the legacy and achievements of Robert Smalls. Born into slavery on April 5, 1839, in Beaufort, Smalls later became a celebrated figure for his daring escape to freedom and his contributions to the Union during the Civil War. After escaping slavery, Smalls served as a military adviser for the Union army and later pursued a political career, ultimately winning a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.

As a young man, Smalls was sent by his enslaver to Charleston, where he worked on various vessels. Though his wages went to his enslaver, Smalls learned to navigate the Charleston Harbor-a skill that afforded him a slightly better quality of life and set the stage for his bold move during the Civil War.

On May 13, 1862, Smalls and fellow enslaved crew members seized the opportunity when the white captain and crew were ashore for the night. Smalls commandeered the CSS Planter, sailing through the harbor and picking up friends and family along the way. Disguised in the captain’s hat, Smalls navigated past two Confederate checkpoints using coded signals, avoiding detection. Once in open waters, they raised a white flag and surrendered the ship to the Union fleet, securing freedom for themselves and their loved ones.

Following his escape, Smalls became one of the first African American pilots in the United States Navy and later served as a captain during the Union's siege of Charleston from 1863 to 1865. After the war, Smalls was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he served multiple terms. He also held the position of Collector of Customs in Beaufort, SC, for nearly 20 years.

Smalls eventually purchased the house in Beaufort where he had been enslaved. He passed away in that same home on February 22, 1915, and was laid to rest behind the Robert Smalls Monument at the Tabernacle Baptist Church, where his legacy continues to inspire.