In the heart of a mill village in Anderson, SC, the Cleo Bailey schoolhouse has stood as a landmark of learning and community since 1913. Once a vibrant center for education, this 28,000-square-foot building played a vital role in shaping the lives of the children in its neighborhood. Today, it is poised for a new chapter as the cornerstone of a bold effort to uplift and support the community it has always served.
A Center for Learning and Community
For decades, the Cleo Bailey schoolhouse was filled with the energy of students eager to learn. It wasn’t just a place for education—it was the heart of the community, where children built the foundations for brighter futures. Families depended on the school as a safe space for growth and opportunity.
Over time, as the mills closed and the neighborhood faced economic challenges, the schoolhouse fell into disrepair. The once-bustling halls grew quiet, and the building became a reminder of what had been lost.
A Vision for Renewal
In 2020, The Cleo Bailey Experiment was founded with the goal of restoring the schoolhouse and turning it into a hub for community growth and support. This vision goes beyond preserving history—it’s about meeting the needs of today’s families and ensuring a better future for generations to come.
Currently, the property is home to the Oasis Garden, which produced over 2,500 pounds of fresh produce last year, helping to provide groceries for 100 local families. It also offers raised garden beds for neighbors to grow their own food and hosts workshops to teach gardening skills.
Looking ahead, the Cleo Bailey Experiment aims to renovate the schoolhouse into a space for afterschool programs, summer camps, and essential services. This revitalized space will provide a place for learning, creativity, and community connection.
A Building with Purpose
The Cleo Bailey schoolhouse represents more than its walls and roof. It is a symbol of resilience and the potential for change. Restoring this historic space is a way to honor the community’s past while providing resources and opportunities for its future.
How You Can Be Part of the Story
The success of this vision depends on people like you who share our belief in the power of community. Here’s how you can help:
Volunteer: From working in the garden to assisting with events, there are many ways to get involved.
Donate: Your contributions will help us restore the schoolhouse and expand our programs.
Share Our Story: Help us reach more people by spreading the word about the Cleo Bailey Experiment.
Together, we can transform the Cleo Bailey schoolhouse into a place that supports and uplifts its community once again.
Thank you for your support and for helping us bring this vision to life. With your help, the Cleo Bailey schoolhouse will continue to serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for years to come.
Stay connected with us for updates on our progress. We’re excited to grow this vision with you.
The Cleo Bailey Experiment Team
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