Tag: Old Plantation

I love history.   And there is lots of it here in Beaufort and Jasper County.

Thankfully, my boyfriend Joe knows this and noted several comments made over the last few years about wanting to stop at the gravesite of Thomas Heyward, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence AND The Articles of Confederation.    

While the little historical marker out on Route 462 is quaint, I have never once noted a vehicle traversing the long sandy drive to wherever his final resting place might be.  While my inquisitiveness wanted me to explore, I know enough about the rural south to know that might not be a good idea alone.    A few days ago, my brave man (who conceal carries) asked me if I wanted to explore.  I jumped at the chance.

Not much remains of the Old Plantation.   There is a sign indicating approximately where the house stood overlooking the Broad River.   And the actual walled cemetery where Thomas Heyward and many of his descendants, including many young children who died at birth or infancy.   It is a serene sight with the tall mossy live oaks lining the driveway and overlooking the river, that the tourist websites promote.  In spite of the nearby trailer and shanties nearby.

But there was something else that took me aback ….  It was this….

Yeah…  he has a SMIRK on his face.  LOL!   None of the other photos I’ve seen online document this.   As an avid fan of the defunct show, “Lie to Me,”  I know a few things about facial expressions.   Supposedly, looking up and to the left like this indicates honesty.   So I presume Mr. Heyward wanted us to believe he was honest.

But that pursed lip…   What indeed was that indicative of?  Disapproval?  Control? Witholding opinion?  Lying? I don’t know but I can’t help but think about this eternal bust of a man that helped found this country.   What indeed is he thinking?  What do you think he is trying to tell us?

I’d love to hear your thoughts….