Locating Slavery's Legacies @ University of Virginia

Memorial Artwork

Sculptural Memorial

Reparative

Torrence, Clinton W.

Headstone of Clinton W. Torrence

In honor of Clinton Torrence's lifelong dedication and service, a memorial marker was erected at his gravesite after his passing. Born on May 6, 1898, Clinton "Clint" Torrence lived a long life, serving as a custodian at Davidson College for 48 years. To the students, he had the ability to project "friendliness and humor" onto everyone around him. He died at the age of 84 on February 12, 1983. This memorial marker stands in the Christian Aid Society Cemetery, located on Ridge Road, adjacent to Davidson College.

Members of the Christian Aid Society Cemetery received discounted services, including funeral insurance, and it is possible that the Torrence family paid for the headstone. Public services to commemorate Clint Torrence's life were held at the Davidson United Presbyterian Church, symbolizing the community's deep respect and gratitude for a man whose life was a testament to unwavering dedication and love for both his family and his place of work. The structural memorial serves as a lasting tribute to a life well-lived, it is a demonstration to the impact of Clint Torrence on his community and loved ones.

The polished granite headstone is measured 3 feet 6 inches in length, 30 inches in height, and 6 inches in width. Starting from the top of the headstone, the Torrence family name is the biggest inscription and is inscribed on a book, most likely the Bible, with flowers embellished on the sides. On the left side of the headstone, right under the name inscription is the word "Mother" inscribed and underneath is the information on Janie L. Torrence. It reads that she was born on Dec. 4, 1900 and died Dec. 3 1986. In the middle, right under "Torrence," it reads "In Loving Memory". There is nothing directly in the middle of the headstone underneath this inscription. On the right side of the headstone, under the "Torrence,"it reads "Father". And underneath is the name Clinton W. with his birth, May 6, 1898 and death Feb 12, 1983.

"Torrence - In Loving Memory - Mother Dec 4, 1900-Dec 3, 1986 - Father May 6, 1898-Feb 12, 1983"

Torrence Family

Christian Aid and Benevolent Society

1983

1976-2000: The Conservative Ascendancy and Retrenchment from Civil Rights Movement

Torrence Family

Christian Aid and Benevolent Society

Christian Aid Society Cemetery

Davidson College; Davidson, North Carolina

Andy Watson, "Ode to a Janitor," The Davidsonian, October 21, 1955.

"Mr. Clinton Torrence," The Charlotte Observer, February 13, 1983.

"Clinton W. Torrence, The Charlotte News, February 14, 1983.