News Summary
The Glenn Springs Preservation Society has announced plans to restore the historic Cates General Store, a structure dating back to the mid-1800s. A $50,000 planning grant from the South Carolina Department of Archives and History will fund preliminary assessments and detailed plans. The estimated restoration cost is around $750,000, which includes essential repairs such as a new roof and foundation reinforcement. The goal is to transform the store into a multi-functional space that will serve as a museum and event venue, fostering community engagement and preserving local history.
Glenn Springs, SC — Plans have been unveiled to restore the historic Cates General Store in Glenn Springs, Spartanburg County, which dates back to the mid-1800s. The store, which operated until the 1930s, has faced significant deterioration over the decades. The Glenn Springs Preservation Society is spearheading this initiative, aiming to educate the public and host special events at the site.
A $50,000 planning grant from the South Carolina Department of Archives and History has been awarded to fund the assessment and create detailed plans for the restoration of the building. This grant will help determine the necessary repairs and create a framework for the restoration process.
The estimated cost for the complete restoration of the Cates General Store is approximately $750,000. Fundraising efforts are actively underway to meet this financial goal, as the restoration will involve extensive repairs, including the installation of a new roof and reinforcement of the building’s foundation.
Vision for the Future
The plans for the restored Cates General Store include transforming it into a museum, a catering kitchen, and a venue for lectures and community events. This multi-functional use aims to revitalize the building and provide a space for local history and culture to thrive.
Community Support
The president of the Glenn Springs Preservation Society has highlighted the strong community support for the restoration efforts. This sense of community is vital in a town like Glenn Springs, which has a population of about 300 residents and is witnessing a newfound interest in restoring its historic buildings, though some still remain in disrepair.
Historic Significance
The Cates General Store is one of several notable properties within the Glenn Springs Historic District, which boasts over 21 historic sites. Among these are the Old Stone Church, built in 1908, and the Glenn Springs Post Office, constructed in 1900. Another significant site was the Glenn Springs Hotel, established in 1835. Once a luxurious spa resort that could accommodate over 500 guests, the hotel was known for its mineral springs before it was destroyed by fire on July 25, 1941. To this day, the ground where the hotel once stood remains vacant.
The Old Stone Church was successfully restored in 2017 at the cost of approximately $500,000 and now serves as a venue for community events. The ongoing commitment to preserving these historic buildings is essential for maintaining the unique heritage of Glenn Springs.
Comparative Reflections
Local residents have expressed the importance of preserving the history of Glenn Springs, viewing the restoration of the Cates General Store as long overdue. With growing interest in maintaining historic properties, the preservation society aims to expand its efforts to protect other historical sites in the area, thereby promoting local heritage and fostering community engagement.
As work on the Cates General Store progresses, it symbolizes a larger movement within Glenn Springs to restore and celebrate its rich past, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the town’s historical significance.
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Cates General Store Restoration
- WSPA: Glenn Springs Preservation Society
- Kidding Around Greenville: Historic Glenn Springs
- Goupstate: Old Stone Church Restoration
- Google Search: Cates General Store Glenn Springs
Author: STAFF HERE SPARTANBURG
The SPARTANBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESpartanburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Spartanburg, Spartanburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spartanburg International Festival, Spartanburg ArtWalk, and motorsport events at Spartanburg Speedway. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce and the Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Foundation, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and textiles that power the local economy such as BMW Manufacturing and Milliken & Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
