William Ashmead Courtenay
1831–1908 (age 77)
civic leader
Biography
William Ashmead Courtenay earned lasting admiration as the mayor of Charleston, leading with practical vision and a commitment to civic improvement. He guided the city’s recovery during difficult times and sought giving every citizen a chance to prosper.
His leadership emphasized infrastructure, education, and the common good, and he inspired others to take pride in the vitality of their municipality. Courtenay’s legacy remains that of a civic leader devoted to the betterment of all.