Florence, SC, October 6, 2025
News Summary
A ceremonial unveiling of a historical marker honoring Dr. Iola Deas Jones will take place at the Dr. Iola Jones Park Amphitheater in Florence, SC. The event will celebrate her significant contributions to the community. Attendees can enjoy parking at nearby locations along with a shuttle service to facilitate access. Dr. Jones was a prominent leader known for her public service, particularly during the Great Depression and throughout her long career. This ceremony underscores her enduring legacy and civic responsibility.
Florence, SC – A ceremonial unveiling of a historical marker honoring Dr. Iola Deas Jones is set for Thursday at 6 p.m. The event will commence at the Oakland Place Community Apartment sign and conclude at the Dr. Iola Jones Park Amphitheater, located at 608 E. Maxwell Street. The public is encouraged to attend and celebrate Dr. Jones’s significant contributions to the Florence community.
Dr. Iola Jones Park was established in 1973 on the grounds of the former American Legion Stadium, which was destroyed by fire in 1970. The park features outdoor basketball courts, an amphitheater, a playground, a walking trail, and an indoor community center equipped with a boxing ring and multipurpose rooms. In preparation for the unveiling, volunteers participated in a cleanup of the park, with Debra Murray serving meals to the helpers.
The ceremony will include parking options at both Dr. Iola Jones Park and Oakland Plaza, also known as Big T’s Shopping Center, located at 1113 Oakland Avenue. A shuttle service will be provided from Oakland Plaza beginning at 5:30 p.m., operating every ten minutes for attendees.
Dr. Iola Deas Jones (1892–1978) was a prominent Florence native celebrated for her extensive public service and community leadership. Throughout her career, she significantly impacted various organizations and sectors. During the Great Depression, Dr. Jones worked as an investigator for the National Recovery Administration in Florence, followed by almost 30 years at the Department of Welfare. She also served as president of the Florence branch of the National Council of Negro Women and was essential in establishing the Florence County Foster Home for Colored Children.
Dr. Jones was recognized for her leadership capabilities, holding positions on the board of the Community Chest and the Women’s State Baptist Convention of South Carolina. She was actively involved with the local Daughter Elks chapter, served as a state officer for the Household of Ruth, and led the Garden Club. Additionally, Dr. Jones was a member of the board of trustees for Morris College in Sumter, where she earned an honorary doctorate in 1965.
The unveiling ceremony marks a moment of reflection and celebration for her enduring legacy, demonstrating the impact of her work within the community and beyond. The historical marker will stand as a testament to her contributions and the strong sense of civic responsibility she instilled in those around her.
Event Details
- Date: Thursday
- Time: 6:00 P.M.
- Location: Dr. Iola Jones Park Amphitheater, 608 E. Maxwell Street, Florence, SC
- Shuttle Service: Begins at 5:30 P.M. from Oakland Plaza, every 10 minutes
- Parking: Available at Dr. Iola Jones Park and Oakland Plaza
Key Features of Dr. Iola Jones Park
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Outdoor Basketball Courts | Two courts available for public use |
| Amphitheater | Venue for community events and gatherings |
| Playground | Safe area for children to play |
| Walking Trail | Pathway for walking, jogging, and exercise |
| Indoor Community Center | Includes a boxing ring, computer lab, and multipurpose rooms |
FAQ
What time is the unveiling ceremony?
The unveiling ceremony is set for Thursday at 6 p.m.
Where is the ceremony taking place?
The ceremony will begin at the Oakland Place Community Apartment sign and will continue at the Dr. Iola Jones Park Amphitheater, located at 608 E. Maxwell Street in Florence, SC.
Is there parking available?
Yes, parking will be available at Dr. Iola Jones Park and Oakland Plaza (Big T’s Shopping Center).
Will there be a shuttle service?
Yes, a shuttle service will operate from Oakland Plaza starting at 5:30 p.m., running every 10 minutes.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Florence Government
- Wikipedia: Iola Jones
- University of South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Iola Deas Jones
- Google News
Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
