Lee,
A couple of interesting things (I think) regarding Governor Wilson.
After the Denmark Vesey slave conspiracy, the state passed severe restrictions on slaves and free coloureds within the state. If a free coloured man wished to travel outside the state, he must obtain permission and papers from the legislature. It was also necessary for free coloured to engage a sponsor who would vouch for their character. One such free coloured man was Jehu Jones, a hotel manager and entrepreneur. His character was without question and his friend and sponsor was Governor James Lyde Wilson.
If one thing is understood about the difference in South Carolina yesterday and today is that yesterday South Carolinians knew the difference between right and wrong. We had manners and were courteous. I sometimes think that one factor leading to South Carolina's impeccable manners was the quickness of the educated man to take offence to a slight of honor. Duelling was an acceptable, and gentlemanly way, to solve major breaches and there was a definite code as to what type of breach deserved what type of response. This was laid out in "The Code Of Honor Or Rules For The Government Of Principals And Seconds In Duelling." When Charles Sumner berated the state of South Carolina, attacked the character of Sen. A.P. Butler, the uncle of Rep Preston Brooks, and vitriolically slurred all things Southern, the nephew realized his responsibility in this issue of honor. He considered calling the rascal out. The Code of Honor however explains that a gentleman is under no obligation to a man of low character and a duel is not necessary. A simple caning is all that a man of low character deserves. Sumner received only what was coming to him according to the code written, by the way, by Governor James Lyde Wilson.
He left his mark in two remarkable avenues that we have tended to let slide; racial understanding when deserved, and offenses rebuked when deserved.
Glenn