Edwin D. Peacock
Edwin D. Peacock | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Thomasville, Georgia, U.S. |
| Died | August 23, 1989 (aged 79) |
| Occupation | Bookseller |
| Known for | Co-owner of Charleston's Book Basement; inspiration for a character in Carson McCullers' novel The Heart is a Lonely Hunter |
Edwin D. Peacock (January 2, 1910 – August 23, 1989) co-owned Charleston's Book Basement alongside his longtime companion John Zeigler. He served as the inspiration for a character in Carson McCullers' novel The Heart is a Lonely Hunter.
Biography
Peacock was born in 1910 in Thomasville, Georgia, the son of a pharmacist, with his mother originating from the antebellum Greenwood Plantation.
Following his high school graduation and a period working with his father, Peacock relocated to Columbus, Georgia where he was employed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. During this time, he encountered Carson McCullers, whom he encouraged in her literary pursuits and introduced to her eventual spouse. Peacock was the model for John Singer, a character in her first novel.
In July 1940, at Isle of Palms, South Carolina, Peacock met John Zeigler—his partner for life—through their mutual acquaintance Roberta Johnson. At that time, Peacock was employed in the finance department at Fort Moultrie. The couple subsequently moved to Tesuque, New Mexico, and then to San Francisco in 1941. Both enlisted in the Naval Reserve in April 1942; their training included San Diego and radio instruction in Boulder, Colorado. Zeigler was assigned to Yukutat, Alaska, while Peacock served at Cape Chiniak, Alaska.
The pair established The Book Basement in 1946 at 9 College Way in Charleston. This bookstore grew into a distinguished independent establishment and became a focal point for civil rights activism. It attracted prominent figures such as Maurice Sendak and Langston Hughes. Promotional materials featured a drawing of the store by Prentiss Taylor. The bookstore ceased operations in 1971; a commemorative plaque honors both Peacock and Zeigler.
Zeigler authored The Edwin Poems, which reflects on their shared life.
Peacock passed away in 1989 and was laid to rest at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Thomasville.
In 2009, James T. Sears released Edwin and John: A Personal History of the American South, chronicling their experiences and influence.