“D” is for DeSaussure, Henry William (1763-1839). Lawyer, jurist, statesman. While in his teens, DeSaussure participated in the defense of Charleston during the Revolutionary War. He was taken prisoner in 1780, but he was later released and exiled to Philadelphia where he studied law. Returning to Charleston he established a successful law practice. He became a prominent voice in lowcountry politics and aligned himself with the Federalist Party. For much of the 1790s he represented St. Philip’s and St. Michael’s parishes in the General Assembly where he was a vigorous advocate of lowcountry interests. In 1800 DeSaussure was instrumental in the incorporation of the South Carolina College. William Henry DeSaussure remained a Unionist during the nullification crisis of the early 1830s, although he vehemently opposed the use of protective tariffs by the federal government.
"D” is for DeSaussure, Henry William (1763-1839)
