In recognition of the achievements of a native son, the Town of Kingstree has decided to erect six highway markers proclaiming it as the “Home of Dr. Henry N. Tisdale, The Eighth President of Claflin University.”

Claflin alumni, friends and the community are invited to the unveiling of the markers at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, at U.S. Highway 52 North, Williamsburg County Highway, across from the Food Lion shopping center.

Wallace Bartelle, president of the Williamsburg County chapter of the alumni association, said erecting the signs in Kingstree is a fitting way to honor Dr. Tisdale.

“Since he was elected president, he has done an outstanding job,” Bartelle said. “He deserves this recognition. Even as a student at Claflin, he was very visible and very active academically.”

Tisdale was appointed the eighth president of Claflin in June 1994. He said having his name erected in his hometown has special meaning.

“This is where my mentors first introduced me to Claflin University. It’s where my family is; it’s where my home is. This is indeed a special honor, and I thank the Williamsburg County alumni for thinking of me in this way,” Tisdale said.

“This is a deeply touching honor. There are many individuals in Kingstree who have helped and guided me as a youth hungry to learn, as a student steered in the right direction by encouragement and as an educator wanting to bring new vision to institutions of higher education. This is an occasion for remembering my hometown with humble gratitude.”

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