City of Charleston History Commission 8/5/26

The City of Charleston History Commission held a meeting on August 5, 2026, primarily discussing two key agenda items related to historical markers. The commission reviewed the placement and approval process of a large South Carolina 250th anniversary plaque at Saint Philip's Church, which had been installed on public property after initially being placed on private property. The discussion highlighted procedural oversights in the permitting and approval process, with city staff proposing improvements to prevent similar issues in the future, including updates to the permitting system to ensure history commission review for signage moved to public spaces. The commission also reviewed and approved the language for a new historical marker for the Costa House, with detailed edits to ensure clarity and space efficiency on the plaque. The marker honors the H.A. DeCosta Company, a prominent African American-owned building firm, and the commission acknowledged the involvement of the William and Ellen Craft Foundation in promoting African American history and education. No contract awards, budget allocations, or procurement actions were discussed during the meeting.