USC Union to Name Campus Building After Hall of Fame Coach

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The Dawkins House on the USC Union campus in Union, South Carolina is undergoing restoration, with its common area set to be named The Willie and Mary Jeffries Commons. This honors Union native Willie Jeffries, a College Football Hall of Fame coach and the first African American head coach at a predominantly white NCAA Division 1 school, Wichita State.

Why it matters

The dedication of the Willie and Mary Jeffries Commons recognizes Jeffries' pioneering achievements as a Black head coach in college football and his deep ties to the local Union community. Preserving the historic Dawkins House also helps maintain an important piece of South Carolina's history.

The details

The Dawkins House, built in 1845, served as the provisional state capital of South Carolina from February to April 1865. Preservation South Carolina is leading the collaborative effort to restore and preserve the historic building. Once finished, the Willie and Mary Jeffries Commons at the Dawkins House will serve as a common area for USC Union students.

• The Dawkins House restoration and preservation efforts are currently underway.
• The Willie and Mary Jeffries Commons at the Dawkins House will be officially dedicated once the restoration is complete.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The restoration and preservation of the Dawkins House is ongoing, with the official dedication of the Willie and Mary Jeffries Commons scheduled to take place once the work is completed.