The historic Kilgore-Lewis house and garden is a romantic gem hidden in downtown Greenville. Admission is free and you can visit Monday to Friday 10AM to 2PM.

Interesting facts

• The house was built in 1838 by Josiah Kilgore near Buncombe Street Methodist Church, as a wedding gift for his daughter Mary Keziah.

• In the 1970s the house faced demolition. The Greenville Council of Garden Clubs stepped in and raised over $100,000 to finance the move, restoration and furnishing of the house. The move to its present location was so successful that not one window was cracked en route!

• Mary’s mother was scalped by Indians when she was young and yet she survived her ordeal!

• Recent grounds restoration uncovered a spring dating from 1760s, believed to supply fresh water to Cherokee Indians and Greenville residences.

This a view of the house front parlor where the Mary’s wedding ceremony was held more than 160 years ago. Here are the exquisite “His” and “Hers” chairs. The lady’s chair has softer lines, more comfortable arm rests and a deep seat cushion (to accommodate the era pompous dresses that featured large derrieres!)

Also in the front parlor is “the first harp ever to grace a Greenville sitting room”…

Mary’s original dresser

The dining room features an original Persian rug from the mid 19th century. Our gracious guide pointed out the small “imperfection” in the design pattern, made on purpose by the artist (a devout Muslim will not attempt to create something perfect as to not offend God).

Most of the walls and ceilings were made out of pine wood boards. Interestingly the ceiling in the dining room was painted blue to ward off pesky mosquitoes.

Outside you can enjoy 5 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and natural habitats. There is a wildlife garden, a sensory garden with plant description in Braille, a pond, a gazebo and many ornamental plants. My favorites were the spring and the large owl’s nest.

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