Rock Quarry Garden recently turned 90 thanks to the Greenville Garden Club, whose historic members created a picturesque haven for residents and visitors to the city.
In 1929, the Greenville Garden Club purchased the two-acre abandoned rock quarry with the intent to preserve and beautify it. The group removed rocks choking its water source, Town Spring, which at the time provided the city’s drinking water.
The result was a babbling brook, with extra quarry stones used to create a stone bridge and steps. At the time, city residents donated thousands of plants, evergreens and shrubs to support the effort. The garden’s Lily Pool won mention in a 1931 Better Homes and Garden magazine contest, “Most Beautiful America.”
Dedicated on Oct. 21, 1932, the Garden Club and the City continue to preserve and invest in the garden. Its picturesque waterfall and beautiful seasonal blooms and plantings make it both a popular wedding site and off-the-beaten-path respite to this day.
Prepared by the City of Greenville.