Greenville, SC, September 5, 2025
News Summary
A new wind phone memorial has been established at Conestee Nature Preserve in Greenville, SC, offering individuals a unique space to express their feelings to departed loved ones. Inspired by the original concept from Japan, this installation provides a therapeutic outlet for those processing grief. The memorial, created by local resident Adriana Brooks in memory of her daughter, aims to foster healing and emotional release in a serene natural setting.
Greenville, SC – New Wind Phone Memorial Established at Conestee Nature Preserve for Grieving Individuals
A new wind phone memorial has been established at the Conestee Nature Preserve in Greenville, South Carolina, designed to provide a space for individuals to express their unspoken words to departed loved ones. This unique installation offers a one-sided communication experience, allowing users to voice their thoughts and emotions in a private and natural setting, which can be particularly therapeutic for those processing grief.
The concept of the wind phone originated in Japan in 2010 when garden designer Itaru Sasaki created the first “Kaze no Denwa,” or “Telephone of the Wind,” to connect with his late cousin. This simple, yet profound idea has since inspired approximately 462 public wind phones worldwide, with the one at Conestee being the only installation of its kind in South Carolina.
Wind phones, which are not connected to any earthly telephone service, provide a unique opportunity for individuals to articulate feelings that may otherwise remain unexpressed. According to studies cited by experts, using these phones promotes healing by creating a safe space for emotional release and reflection. This is especially crucial as not everyone has access to counseling or supportive individuals to help them navigate their grief journey.
The wind phone at Conestee Nature Preserve was inspired by the personal loss of local resident Adriana Brooks, who endured the loss of her daughter, Adele, due to an unexpected stillbirth. Following this tragedy, Adriana faced severe postpartum depression and often visited the Conestee Nature Preserve for solace. After discovering a wind phone in Georgia, she felt compelled to create a similar space at the Preserve to honor her daughter’s memory.
With permission from the staff at Conestee, the wind phone was installed in August 2025. Feedback from visitors has been overwhelmingly positive, with many finding comfort in using this unique memorial. During a media interview regarding the installation, Adriana encountered a woman who shared her grief about losing her husband unexpectedly. This interaction underscored the wind phone’s significance, as it serves as a tribute to both Adriana’s late daughter and her grandfather, who passed away shortly before the memorial was introduced.
The wind phone is located in the Rock Garden area of Conestee Nature Preserve, easily accessible from the 601 Fork Shoals Road entrance (Entrance D). There is no fee to visit the Preserve, although donations are welcomed to support ongoing maintenance and improvements of the site.
The Role of Wind Phones in Grief Processing
Individuals’ experiences with wind phones can vary greatly. For some, it offers a cathartic release, while others may find it a moment of reflection or a sacred connection to the divine. Every interaction is unique, reflecting the personal nature of grief.
Conclusion
The establishment of the wind phone at Conestee Nature Preserve stands as a vital resource for those who are mourning. It fosters an environment where individuals can openly express their emotions, contributing to the healing process in a serene and supportive setting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a wind phone?
A wind phone is a telephone-like installation designed for people to communicate their feelings and thoughts to loved ones who have passed away. It is not connected to any telecommunications network, allowing for one-sided communication.
Where is the wind phone located?
The wind phone is located in the Rock Garden area of Conestee Nature Preserve in Greenville, SC, near the 601 Fork Shoals Road entrance.
Why was the wind phone established?
The wind phone was established as a memorial to help individuals process grief and provide a therapeutic outlet to express emotions that may be hard to articulate.
Is there a fee to visit the wind phone?
No, there is no charge to visit the Conestee Nature Preserve, but donations are appreciated to assist with the upkeep of the area.
How many wind phones are there globally?
As of September 2025, there are approximately 462 public wind phones installed worldwide.
Key Features of the Wind Phone at Conestee Nature Preserve
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Rock Garden area of Conestee Nature Preserve, accessible from Entrance D. |
| Purpose | To provide a therapeutic outlet for individuals to express grief and connect with loved ones who have passed away. |
| Installation Date | August 2025 |
| Global Reach | One of approximately 462 public wind phones worldwide. |
| Accessibility | No charge to visit, donations welcomed. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Wind Phone Memorial Established at Conestee Nature Preserve
- Wikipedia: Grief
- Kidding Around Greenville: Wind Phone at Conestee
- Google Search: Therapeutic communication
- WYFF4: Lainey Wilson Corn Maze Contest
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Memorial
- Google Search: Coping with grief
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.
