Kilgore-Lewis House, Greenville

The Kilgore-Lewis House stands as a testament to the region's rich history and architectural heritage. While the exact origins of the house are shrouded in some mystery, historical records suggest that it was likely built around 1838 by George Boyle, who subsequently deeded the property to Josiah Kilgore. Kilgore, in turn, gifted the house to his daughter, Mary, in 1855, marking the beginning of its storied history. As one of the oldest surviving structures in Greenville County, the Kilgore-Lewis House holds a significant place in the area's cultural landscape.

Constructed in the Palladian style, the farmhouse exudes an air of elegance and distinction, setting it apart from other farmhouses of its time in the Upstate region. Originally located on Buncombe Street in downtown Greenville, the house remained in the Kilgore family for an impressive 130 years before taking on a new role as a Sunday school building for a nearby church. However, as the years passed, the house faced the looming threat of demolition, a fate all too common for many historic structures in the area.

Fortunately, the Greenville Council of Garden Clubs intervened, recognizing the historical significance of the Kilgore-Lewis House and its architectural charm. In 1974, the house was relocated to a five-acre lot in McPherson Park, where it was lovingly restored and preserved for future generations to enjoy. Today, the Kilgore-Lewis House serves as both a living testament to Greenville's past and a vibrant event venue, welcoming visitors to step back in time and experience the elegance and grandeur of a bygone era.