A senate RESOLUTION

TO AUTHORIZE THE COMMISSIONING OF A PORTRAIT OF ROBERT SMALLS TO BE PLACED IN THE SENATE CHAMBER.

Whereas, the members of the South Carolina Senate are pleased to recognize Robert Smalls for his many contributions to the people and the State of South Carolina; and

Whereas, Robert Smalls was an exemplary individual, demonstrating courage and perseverance in the face of impossible odds. He was born a slave and, during the Civil War, commandeered a Confederate ship to transport his family and others to freedom. After the war, he received a commission as a brigadier general of the South Carolina militia; and

Whereas, Robert Smalls served as a delegate to the 1868 South Carolina constitutional convention and served in the South Carolina Senate from 1870 to 1874. He was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1874, where he passionately served four terms; and

Whereas, Robert Smalls' lifetime achievements and accomplishments are, for all practical purposes, legendary, and the citizens of South Carolina have benefited greatly from his contributions and talents for several successive generations; and

Whereas, the many contributions of Robert Smalls to the well-being of the citizens of the State are numerous and deserving of permanent recognition in a place of honor in the Senate Chamber where he served with such great distinction.  Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate:

That the members of the South Carolina Senate, by this resolution, authorize the commissioning of a portrait of Robert Smalls to be placed in the Senate chamber.

Be it further resolved that a portrait committee of seven members of the Senate be appointed by the President of the Senate. The senior member of the committee shall serve as its chairman. The committee shall handle the arrangements and details of the hanging of a portrait including, but not limited to, the location for the portrait and an appropriate ceremony to commemorate the unveiling and dedication of the portrait.

Be it further resolved that the Clerk of the Senate shall provide such assistance and services as the committee shall direct.

----XX----