William James Rivers papers

William James Rivers (1822-1909) was born July 17 in Charleston, South Carolina to John David Rivers and Eliza Ridgewood Rivers. He graduated from South Carolina College, now known as the University of South Carolina, in 1841. After graduation Rivers conducted a large private school. He then was elected professor of Greek literature at South Carolina College in 1856, when the college reorganized into the University of South Carolina in 1865 he became professor of ancient languages and literature. River’s resigned his position most likely due to his objection to the integration of the school. In 1873 Rivers accepted the position of Principal of Washington College. Rivers was a founder of the South Carolina Historical Society and one of his noted works was a manuscript volume of South Carolinians that fought in the Civil War called the “Roll of Honor”. While principal Rivers faced many difficulties due to the war and years of economic depression. He resigned the position in 1887, he moved to Baltimore and remained with his family until his death in 1909. Rivers had been vocal about his objection of Reconstruction and maintaining the ideals of white superiority over other races. He is buried in Elmwood Cemetery, Columbia, SC.