From the Journal of Blacks in Higher Education: “Pitchfork” Ben Tillman was born in 1847. His father owned nearly 50 slaves. After the Civil War, Tillman continued to operate his father’s plantation under conditions that were much the same as before the war. In 1885, Tillman began his political career that focused on denying education to African Americans. “When you educate a Negro,” Tillman said, “you educate a candidate for the penitentiary or spoil a good field hand.” 

Tillman was also an S.C. governor, U.S. senator, and was on the founding board of trustees of Clemson University. One of the most historic buildings on campus, “Tillman Hall” is named after him. However, “Tillman” is not even the original name of the building. While the school was started in 1889, the building was called “Old Main” until 1946. This adds to the fact that it is a glaring insult to our black community.

Some say the building name is warranted to appreciate Tillman’s work for our school and country. But there is no better time than now to remind ourselves that some history is ONLY to be remembered, not revered, and to change the building’s name back to something that reflect’s the entire community’s values.

It is dog whistles, such as this that amplify the concerns of racial division on campus, and we must show that we are actively trying to make campus a more welcoming place for diversity.