“R” is for Richardson, John Peter, III (1831-1899). Governor. Last of the conservative-era governors, Richardson was born in Sumter District. After graduating from the South Carolina College, he devoted himself to his extensive planting interests in Clarendon District. He represented Clarendon in the S.C. House of Representatives (1856-1861). After service in the Civil War, he again represented Clarendon in the House (1865 and 1878-1880). Richardson served three terms as state treasurer from 1880 to 1886. In 1886 he was elected governor and used all of the influence of his office to secure passage of legislation reorganizing South Carolina College as a university. Much of his second term was dominated by the founding of Clemson College. John Peter Richardson, III, continued to be active in conservative Democratic politics and in civic and business affairs after relinquishing public office.
“R” is for Richardson, John Peter, III (1831-1899)
