“M” is for Means, John Hugh (1812-1862). Governor. A native of Fairfield District, Means graduated from the South Carolina College. He became a convert to the gospel of states’ rights at an early age. After serving a single term in the S.C. House of Representatives, Means established himself as one of the leading fire-eaters in the upcountry and a vocal advocate of secession. In the fall of 1850 radicals won control of both houses of the General Assembly and elected Means governor. As governor he urged the state to prepare militarily for secession and possible armed conflict with the federal government. He also supported the use of state funds for the development of railroads. When the Civil War broke out, he helped organize an infantry unit. John Hugh Means was killed at the Second Battle of Manassas.
“M” is for Means, John Hugh (1812-1862)
