University of Cincinnati to remove slave-holder’s name from college of arts and sciences

Charles McMicken, a businessman and slave-owner whose bequest of land and money allowed Cincinnati to found UC, and McMicken Hall, which bears his name. CONTRIBUTED BY WCPO-TV

Charles McMicken, a businessman and slave-owner whose bequest of land and money allowed Cincinnati to found UC, and McMicken Hall, which bears his name. CONTRIBUTED BY WCPO-TV

The University of Cincinnati will remove the name of Charles McMicken from the college of arts and sciences, the Board of Trustees voted Tuesday.

University officials spent a semester examining how it should continue to commemorate McMicken, the slave-owner who founded the college of arts and sciences, according to our news partner, WCPO-TV.

McMicken, an early 19th century businessman from Pennsylvania, bequeathed the city of Cincinnati money and property “ to found an institution where white boys and girls might be taught ” when he died in 1858.

McMicken's name will remain on buildings — McMicken Hall, McMicken Circle, McMicken Commons and "Mick and Mack" statues and restaurant. The university will add digital displays which will "more fully and fairly represent the histories associated with McMicken."

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