Nonprofit acquires funding for purchase of YMCA property in Simpsonville

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Upstate Preservation Trust, a historic preservation nonprofit in Upstate South Carolina, has received approval for $1.205 million in funding to acquire historic Oakland Plantation from the YMCA of Greenville.

The Greenville County Historic and Natural Resources Trust and the South Carolina Conservation Bank have awarded $602,500 each for the acquisition of the property, according to a news release.

“The Greenville County Historic and Natural Resources Trust is proud to be a funding partner on this project that will preserve this historic landmark and lead to the creation of open space for the residents of Greenville County,” Alex Reynolds, communications committee chair of the Greenville County Historic and Natural Resources Trust, said in the release. “This project is an excellent example of what can happen when organizations come together to achieve common goals for the good of the citizens of Greenville County.”

The Oakland project represents the largest grant awarded by the Greenville County HNRT to date.

Related content: Upstate preservation organization to purchase YMCA-owned land in Simpsonville

The circa-1820 Oakland Plantation house and its associated outbuildings make up a rare intact collection of historic plantation resources, according to the release. There is a two-story former slave cabin, one of three known to have survived in Greenville County, and nine other 19th-century outbuildings. UPT will also purchase the adjacent 48 acres of green space, which is surrounded on all sides by housing. A partnership between UPT and Greenville County Rec will allow for the green space to be converted to a passive park for the enjoyment of the community.

“Not often are communities able to secure green space for public use within a dense urban environment,” commented Raleigh West, executive director, South Carolina Conservation Bank, said in the release. “We commend Upstate Preservation Trust not only for securing the funds to acquire the property but also for their commitment to interpreting the property and making it available to the community as a recreational resource.”

The closing is planned for the first quarter of 2024, and restoration of the historic home and buildings is slated to begin soon after, the release stated. UPT is actively fundraising and seeking community support to help fund the stabilization of the buildings. To date, UPT has raised $250,000 and expects the total cost for rehabilitation to be $1.5 million. The public is encouraged to make a tax-deductible gift to Upstate Preservation Trust to help make the Oakland project a success.