Park to be renamed after Charleston's first black mayor/prominent citizen

Charles Williams Sr.

CHARLESTON -- Charleston's first black mayor and one of its most prominent citizens will be celebrated this weekend as a park is renamed in his honor.

The Mark Twain Park will be renamed the Charles R. Williams Sr. Park during a dedication ceremony set for 10 a.m. Saturday at the corner of North Elm and Lafayette streets in Charleston. Immediately following, there will be music, food and games.

"I'm honored for the park being named after me," said Williams, who served as Charleston's mayor in the 1970s. "I've given a lot to the community, but the community has given a lot to me."

For the full story, see today's e-edition.