Gen. Wade Hampton III claimed the victory of South Carolina governor’s race of 1876. Hold on it wasn’t going to be that easy. No, siree. After all, Wade Hampton held the reins of power after the civil war. This was even though government authority was given to others under Congressional Reconstruction.

Incumbent Republic Daniel R. Chamberlain faced Democrat nominee Gen. Wade Hampton in the 1876 South Carolina Governor’s race which was one of our most controversial.

Martin Gary developed a strategy of attending Republican rallies and disrupting them. As violence escalated between the Black militias and the White rifle-clubs, Chamberlain called for federal troops and ordered the rifle clubs disbanded.

Instead, the rifle-clubs regrouped under new names. They emerged with names such as Mother’s Little Helpers, church sewing circles, or the Hampton & Tildon Musical club. In 1876 about 240 such clubs had a membership of around 20,000.

Hampton began his campaign September 2, 1876 in Anderson. He made his way to Columbia for the November 7th election. Red Shirt riders accompanied Hampton’s entourage. His platform was Home Rule with the theme of reconciliation.

When the votes were tallied Hampton won by a slim margin. Chamberlain refused to concede defeat. The State Supreme Court required the Board of Canvassers to issue certificates to candidates who received the most votes.

Both candidates and their representatives tried to occupy the State House. It looked as if there would be a battle. Chamberlain took the oath of office and held an inauguration. Hampton urged patient maneuvering.

On December 13th the Secretary of State unwittingly provided election results. Results showed Hampton was the winner. The Columbia Flying Artillery club was renamed the Hampton Saluting club. Lexington had the Lexington Rifles.

Chamberlain still refused to accept defeat. He could not retain his authority without federal intervention. Newly elected Republican President Rutherford B. Hayes rejected a request for continued occupation. Federal troops evacuated the South Carolina State House on April 9, 1877. Chamberlain and his staff followed April 11. Hayes won the Presidency by one vote.

South Carolina’s military occupation was over.