Greenville Revitalization Corporation (GRC), in partnership with the Greenville Textile Heritage Society, announced plans for the creation of a new park that will celebrate the once-thriving textile history of Greenville County. The event was hosted on Tuesday morning at the 6-acre site of the future park, located across Smythe St. from the Lofts of Greenville at Monaghan Mill.
Attendees to the kickoff event witnessed the unveiling of the park sign, which states, “Future Home of the Textile Heritage Park.” Construction will begin this spring. “The park will breathe new life into this historic mill neighborhood and introduce a new generation of visitors to the industry that put Greenville on the map,” says GRC chief executive officer Doug Dent.
The park plans, designed by Arbor Engineering, feature walking trails, a children’s playground, community garden and a Textile Museum designed to look like a 1930’s-era mill house. An outdoor classroom has been donated by Alpha Tree Company. One of the park’s signature features will be a “Mill Walk” with brick alcoves, each dedicated to a historic mill in Greenville County. Visitors who are interested in participating are welcome to donate a brick or plaque for the Mill Walk.
According to Don Harkins, president of the Greenville Textile Heritage Society, the site was once the centerpiece of the Monaghan community. A century ago, it was known as “Central Park,” and was used for various occasions including band concerts, a baby parade in the springtime, and the largest patriotic parade held in S.C.
“We are so thankful for the opportunity to work with the Greenville Textile Heritage Society on this project that means so much to the identity of Greenville County,” expressed Wil Brasington, chairman of the GRC board.
GRC is accepting donations to the park in the form of financial or service material contributions, as well as brick and plaque reservations for the Mill Walk.
