Greenville, South Carolina, September 5, 2025
News Summary
The Poinsett Bridge, the oldest bridge of its kind in South Carolina, is set for a six-month renovation to preserve its historical and structural integrity. This project, starting in September 2024, will involve essential repairs such as repointing lime mortar, replacing stones, resurfacing, and adding a guardrail. While upgrades aim to enhance longevity for future generations, community members raise concerns about preserving its historical value. The area surrounding the bridge will be closed to the public during renovations, spotlighting both its architectural significance and haunting legends that attract visitors.
Greenville, South Carolina – Historic Poinsett Bridge to Undergo Renovation
The Poinsett Bridge, a historic landmark in Greenville County, South Carolina, is scheduled for a comprehensive six-month renovation starting at the end of September 2024. This project aims to preserve the bridge, ensuring its structural integrity and historical significance for future generations.
Constructed in 1820, Poinsett Bridge is recognized as the oldest bridge of its kind in South Carolina. It once served as part of the State Road that connected the Upstate region to the coast. As the only remaining bridge from this original route, it continues to attract both locals and tourists seeking to explore its rich history and the haunted legends associated with it.
Renovation Details
The preservation project will entail vital repairs, including repointing lime mortar, replacing missing stones, resurfacing the bridge, and adding a guardrail. While the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has stated that these upgrades are necessary to secure the bridge’s longevity for another 200 years, some community members have raised concerns this addition may compromise its historical integrity.
During the renovation period, which runs from September 29, 2024, to March 31, 2026,
the Poinsett Bridge Heritage Preserve, encompassing 396 acres surrounding the bridge, will be closed to the public.
Haunted Legends and Local Lore
Alongside its historical significance, the Poinsett Bridge is famed for its spooky reputation. In 2019, Condé Nast Traveler named it one of the 30 most haunted places in the United States. Local legends tell of workers who contracted malaria during construction, with one reportedly buried within the bridge’s walls. Additionally, tales of a headless man who was shot on the bridge in 1861 add to its eerie allure, as witnesses claim he appears at midnight during rainy nights.
Paranormal investigations have gained popularity in the area due to numerous ghost sightings and inexplicable occurrences, with many visitors reporting orbs, floating lights, and unexplainable car troubles while nearby. These ghost stories serve to enhance the bridge’s status as an intriguing destination rich with both history and mystery.
Historical Context
The bridge was designed by the renowned architect Robert Mills, who is also known for his design of the Washington Monument. The keystone is marked with the year 1820, further underscoring its age. Originally, three bridges were constructed along the State Road, but two of these have since become submerged in the Saluda Reservoir.
Operational until 1955, the Poinsett Bridge was rendered obsolete after the road was realigned. It was subsequently listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, recognizing its cultural and historical importance to South Carolina.
Conclusion
As the Poinsett Bridge prepares for its renovation, both its enduring legacy and the spectral tales that surround it will continue to captivate the interest of residents and visitors alike. Once the renovations are complete, it is hoped that this architectural treasure will stand proud for another 200 years, telling stories of history and hauntings for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Poinsett Bridge?
The Poinsett Bridge is the oldest bridge of its kind in South Carolina, constructed in 1820 as part of the State Road connecting the Upstate and the coast.
When will the renovation take place?
The renovation is scheduled to begin on September 29, 2024, and will last until March 31, 2026.
Why is the bridge considered haunted?
The Poinsett Bridge has several haunted legends, including stories of workers who died during its construction and sightings of a headless man. Visitors have reported various paranormal encounters, such as orbs and strange noises.
What work will be done during the renovation?
Renovation work will include repointing lime mortar, replacing missing stones, resurfacing the bridge, and adding a guardrail.
Is the Poinsett Bridge open during renovations?
No, the Poinsett Bridge and its Heritage Preserve will be closed to the public during the renovation period from September 29, 2024, to March 31, 2026.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hit-and-Run Incidents Raise Concerns in Greenville County
Additional Resources
- The State
- WLTX
- Greenville Journal
- Kidding Around Greenville
- Google Search: Poinsett Bridge South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Poinsett Bridge
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
