June 19, 2025

Former Mayor Billy Keyserling Awarded Order of the Palmetto

News Summary

Billy Keyserling, former mayor of Beaufort, has been honored with the Order of the Palmetto during a city council meeting. The award was presented by S.C. Representative Shannon Erickson, who recognized Keyserling’s impactful contributions to business, education, and the arts in the community. Governor Henry McMaster also praised Keyserling’s continued advocacy and his commitment to civil discourse. Keyserling reflected on his experiences as mayor and his dedication to grassroots politics, while also expressing concerns about partisanship in today’s political climate.

Beaufort – Former Mayor Billy Keyserling was awarded the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, during a Beaufort City Council meeting on June 10. The award was presented by S.C. Representative Shannon Erickson, who highlighted Keyserling’s significant contributions to the community in various areas including business, education, and the arts.

Erickson also shared a personal anecdote about how Keyserling positively influenced her child during a school visit, reinforcing the admiration many have for him within the community. Governor Henry McMaster expressed pride in honoring Keyserling as well, acknowledging his sustained positive impact on both South Carolina and the Beaufort community.

Keyserling, who served as Beaufort’s mayor from 2008 to 2020, took the opportunity to reflect on his experiences and emphasized the importance of moving forward without bitterness. He expressed gratitude for receiving the award in the chamber he played a pivotal role in establishing, calling it his “second home” and the “light of my life.”

During the meeting, Keyserling acknowledged his predecessors and fellow colleagues, illustrating the collaborative spirit that has defined much of his political career. He recounted his early political friendship with Republican Scott Richardson, demonstrating a willingness to work together across party lines despite their differing political beliefs.

Keyserling comes from a family deeply rooted in Beaufort’s history, with both of his parents having made substantial contributions to civil service. He underscored his commitment to grassroots politics by recalling his early efforts in civic engagement and community service, laying the foundation for his later success as mayor.

In his remarks, Keyserling expressed concern about the current state of American politics, particularly the increasing partisanship that he feels detracts from important discussions and collaborative efforts. He advocated for civil discourse and cooperation across political divides, stressing that solutions often require teamwork and understanding rather than divisive tactics.

Looking to the future, Keyserling continues to engage with the community through various platforms, including a podcast where he discusses issues such as disabilities and emphasizes the need for awareness and understanding of diverse topics within the community. His legacy in Beaufort is not just defined by his time in office but also through his ongoing advocacy efforts.

Keyserling is also known for his environmental activism, notably his opposition to offshore oil drilling and his support for establishing a National Park that commemorates the Reconstruction Era’s historical narrative. His background includes experience in federal legislation and a rich history of political activism, which serves to underscore his deep-rooted commitment to public service.

As he was honored, Keyserling’s lasting popularity was evident; he is affectionately referred to as “Mayor Billy” by the residents of Beaufort, highlighting the impact he has had on the community. With over a decade of leadership and continued involvement in local issues, his contributions are sure to resonate in Beaufort for years to come.