Kilgore-Lewis House

The extensive gardens and arboretum at the Kilgore-Lewis House are generally open to the public for self-guided tours during daylight hours, free of charge. For specific house tour schedules, which are often available on certain days with free admission (donations encouraged), it's best to check the Greenville City website or contact the Greenville Council of Garden Clubs directly.

No, there is no admission fee to explore the beautiful gardens and arboretum. Self-guided garden tours are free. While house tours are also typically free, donations are encouraged to support the preservation and maintenance of this historic site.

The Kilgore-Lewis House is located at 560 N. Academy Street. While specific dedicated parking information isn't always detailed, visitors can typically find street parking in the vicinity or utilize nearby public parking lots. It's advisable to check local signage for any restrictions.

The gardens feature various paths, and while many areas are likely accessible, some older paths or natural terrain might present challenges. For house tours, it's recommended to contact the Greenville Council of Garden Clubs in advance to inquire about specific accessibility accommodations, as historic homes can sometimes have limitations.

Yes, the Kilgore-Lewis House is considered a family-friendly destination, offering a peaceful environment for all ages to enjoy the gardens and learn about local history. Regarding dogs, while the gardens are outdoors, it's best to confirm their pet policy directly with the Greenville Council of Garden Clubs, especially concerning leash requirements or restricted areas.

Beyond the diverse plant collections in the arboretum and gardens, a significant natural feature is the historic artesian well and stream. This well, which was a water source for indigenous people and early settlers, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and bears the inscription 'Thank God for Water' on its granite wall.

A self-guided stroll through the five-acre gardens and arboretum can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on your pace and interest in horticulture. If you include a house tour, which offers insight into early Greenville home life, your visit could extend to 1.5 to 2 hours.

Yes, the Kilgore-Lewis House serves as the headquarters for the Greenville Council of Garden Clubs and is a popular venue for events like weddings due to its elegant and spacious grounds. For information on booking group tours or hosting special events, it's best to contact the Council directly.

Built around 1838, the house was originally located near Buncombe Street Methodist Church. In 1974, to prevent its demolition for church expansion, the Greenville Council of Garden Clubs raised funds to move the entire structure to its current five-acre site in McPherson Park. It's remarkable that not a single window cracked during the move.

The Kilgore-Lewis House is situated at 560 N. Academy Street, adjacent to Springwood Cemetery, and is easily accessible from downtown Greenville. This means visitors are within a short distance of numerous restaurants, cafes, and other historical landmarks that Greenville has to offer, making it easy to combine your visit with other local attractions.

The five-acre property boasts extensive gardens and an arboretum accredited by ArbNet and listed on the Morton Registry. Maintained by volunteers, they feature diverse areas like a wildflower garden, a sensory garden with Braille plant descriptions, a gazebo, a bridge, a pond, and a collection of 75 labeled trees, some decades old. It's a peaceful urban woodland for relaxation and learning.