Portrait of White Guy at City Hall Removed, But Just for Restoration

Charles Barron may be hoping that the artwork removed from the Committee Room in City Hall will usher in some diversity on the walls.

But actually, it's just being restored.

According to mayoral spokesman Jason Post, the portrait that was removed is of Robert Anderson and was painted by William Powell in 1861.

In email, Post said, "A southerner, Anderson remained loyal to the Union, and was known for his command of Fort Sumter at the start of the Civil War. His actions at Fort Sumter made him a national hero.

"Three portraits that were identified by the City Design Commission’s conservator as being in need of treatment were removed from the City Council on November 7th as part of our ongoing portrait conservation initiative."