Allen J. Barwick: Duke may need name change

Rob Christensen’s Jan. 24 column “Decades deal fortune’s reversal” on the reversal of reputations between 19th century politicos Charles Aycock and George White reminded us of the dark years of North Carolina history that linger today. Vestiges of hatred and prejudice still exist in our state.

Recognition of George White and his contributions to state history is overdue, and Duke University’s commemoration of his legacy is to be applauded.

Christensen’s column also mentioned Duke’s decision to change Aycock Residence Hall to East Residence Hall. This decision is problematic and reflects a growing trend.

Revising history to console deprived interest groups is not a solution to problems. Where do we draw the line when choosing to pull down historical monuments because our forefathers were guilty of “contextual” sins?

Case in point, Washington Duke was a great and generous man, but the commodity that made him wealthy and funded the Duke Endowment also caused a lot of health problems. That this truth was withheld from the public for so many years makes one wonder whether Washington Duke should be so renowned.

Is this a cause for renaming Duke University? This same reasoning could be used to discredit many of our treasured institutions we love so dearly.

This story was originally published February 14, 2016 at 1:00 PM with the headline "Allen J. Barwick: Duke may need name change."