“S” is for state seal. The great seal of South Carolina was first used on a document dated May 22, 1777. The seal’s designers were William Henry Drayton and Arthur Middleton. The inspiration for the design came from the battle of Sullivan's Island. The seal's front showed a Palmetto representing the fort, at the base of which was an uprooted oak representing the sunken British ships. From the tree hung two shields, one inscribed “March 26” (ratification date of the state’s constitution) and the other with “July 4.” The reverse depicted the Roman goddess Spes (Hope) walking on the beach at dawn over discarded weapons and holding a laurel blossom. The goddess symbolized the patriots’ optimism. The two state mottoes: “Prepared in Mind and Resources” and “While I Breathe, I Hope” also appeared on the seal.
“S” is for state seal
