May 27, 1863, The Charleston Mercury
Our readers will remember that, some four years ago, it was proposed, in the City Council, to sell two large lots on South Bay, purchased during the administration of Mr. MILES, with a view to the extension of the Battery Garden westward towards Ashley River. Although at first the proposal met with favor in that body, it was afterwards abandoned, in consequence of the popular feeling. This was manifested in a numerously signed memorial praying the Council to let matters stand as they were, and to throw no obstacles in the way of completing the Battery hereafter, as soon as practicable. We had supposed the affair definitely settled, by the concurrence of Council in the views thus presented. We regret to see that this scheme has been again started and that the clearly expressed will of the community seems about to be set aside for the sake of a small speculation. The Battery is a matter of both pride, pleasure and healthful recreation with the people of Charleston. When properly finished to the Ashley River, it will be worthy of the taste of our people, and unrivaled in its kind on the American continent. Let us not, in a short-sighted materialism, give up its benefits. Two lots will neither empty nor fill the coffers of the city.