Richard Edward Dereef facts for kids

Richard Edward Dereef (1798–1876) was an important person in Charleston, South Carolina. He was a free man of mixed race who became a successful lumber trader and politician. He was known as one of the wealthiest Black men in Charleston. Dereef was also a city alderman, which is like a city council member, during a time called the Reconstruction era.

Richard Dereef's Life Story

Richard Dereef grew up in a wealthy family in Charleston. His family had mixed race heritage. Even though he was well-educated and rich, he still faced unfair treatment because of his race.

Avoiding a Special Tax

Most free Black people in South Carolina had to pay a special tax. But Richard Dereef did not have to pay this "Free Black Man's Tax." He claimed that his grandmother had Native American roots. In 1823, he and his cousin, John Cain, went to court. They proved to a judge in Charleston that their families were indeed descended from Native Americans. This meant they and their children did not have to pay the tax.

His Business and Wealth

Richard and his brother, Joseph Dereef (1802–1876), worked as "wood factors." This means they were agents who bought and sold lumber. Their family business was located at a place called Dereef's Wharf. Richard also owned many houses that he rented out in Charleston. Some of his renters were even white people. He was considered one of the richest Black men in the city. Richard Dereef also owned enslaved people.

Role in Politics

In 1868, during the Reconstruction era, Richard Dereef was chosen by military leaders to be a city alderman. This was a time after the American Civil War when the Southern states were being rebuilt. As an alderman, he helped make decisions for the city. He often supported the Democrats.

In 1872, he was elected to a leadership role in the Brown Fellowship Society. This was an organization for free Black men in Charleston. Richard Dereef left a will when he passed away.

What is His Legacy?

Today, two places in Charleston are named after him: Dereef Court and Dereef Park. In 2012, there were plans to build houses on Dereef Park, which caused some protests. But in 2017, a good solution was found. The plan changed to include a park and a historic building called a "praise house" along with the new homes.