Billy Keyserling

William D. 'Billy' Keyserling (born June 29, 1948) is an American politician. He is a former member of the South Carolina House of Representatives from the 124th District, and is a member of the Democratic party.

Billy Keyserling
Keyserling, with Mark Sanford (seated) at ceremony awarding Joe Frazier the Order of the Palmetto, 2010
Member of the South Carolina House of Representatives from the 124th district
In office 1991–1995
Preceded by	Harriet Keyserling
Succeeded by	Edie Rodgers
Personal details
Born	(1948-06-29) June 29, 1948 (age 77) Beaufort, South Carolina, U.S.
Party	Democratic
Relations	Leon Keyserling Mary Dublin Keyserling
Parent	Harriet Keyserling

Early life and education

Keyserling was born in Beaufort, South Carolina. He graduated from Brandeis University in 1971 and Boston University in 1974.

Political career

Mayor of Beaufort

Keyserling was elected Mayor of Beaufort in 2008, serving twelve years and three terms. One of his achievements was helping to establish the Reconstruction Era National Historical Park in the city.^[1] In 2020, Keyserling announced his decision not to run for re-election.^[2][3]

Beaufort City Council

Keyserling served sixteen years on Beaufort City Council, with twelve as Mayor.^[4]

South Carolina House of Representatives

Keyserling served two terms in the South Carolina House of Representatives from 1991 until 1995, succeeding his mother, Harriet Keyserling.

Civic organizations

Organizations Keyserling was involved in included:

• Beaufort Marine Institute
• Mainstreet Beaufort, USA
• Greater Beaufort Chamber of Commerce
• Beaufort Council Navy League
• Beaufort Little Theatre Arts Council

Honors and recognitions

Keyserling (far right), Congressman Jim Clyburn (far left) and other elected officials look on during dedication of Reconstruction Era National Historic Park,2017.

In June 2025, Keyserling was presented with the Order of the Palmetto by Shannon Erickson^[5]