South Carolina Department of Archives and History |
National Register Properties in South Carolina Reedy River Falls Historic Park and Greenway, Greenville County (along the banks of the Reedy River, Greenville) |
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Park Falls | Park Overview | Reedy River | Lower Falls | Dyer Cottage |
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Ruins of Vardry Mill |
Ruins of McBee Mill |
The Reedy River Falls are not only the geographical but also the historical center of Greenville. The speed and power of the Reedy River falls and rapids below them were indirectly responsible for the founding of Greenville at this site in the early 1800s. Since that time, the mills that were the economic life of the city sat near the falls and used their power to grind flour and cornmeal or manufacture textiles. In the 1930s, the area surrounding the falls acquired additional significance as the site of a botanical garden and arboretum. Some brick ruins, presumed to be the remains of Vardry Mill built circa 1830, are still visible on the riverbank. Rehabilitation of the area began with the opening of the Furman University botanical garden and arboretum in 1929-1930. Listed in the National Register April 23, 1973; Boundary increase November 17, 1978.
View the complete text of the nomination form for this National Register property.
View the complete text of the nomination form for the boundary increase of this National Register property.
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