Chick Springs
The historic Chick Springs property in Taylors has had major significance to the upstate for hundreds of years. Taylors TownSquare is championing a project to turn it into a park and potential future trailhead for the Enoree River Trail system. Taylors TownSquare has a unique opportunity to acquire the property that includes the original springhouse and gazebo and transform it into a publicly accessible place.
The History of Chick Springs
Chick Springs, located in present-day Taylors, South Carolina, has been a site of historical significance for centuries. The Cherokee recognized the mineral springs for their healing properties long before European settlers arrived. In 1840, Dr. Burwell Chick, a physician from Newberry, South Carolina, established a resort at the site, constructing a spacious hotel and cottages to accommodate summer guests.
The arrival of the Southern Railway in the 1870s and 1880s expanded access to the area, attracting visitors from as far as Richmond and New Orleans, all eager to experience the springs' reputed therapeutic benefits. Over the years, the site hosted various enterprises, including summer resorts, a military academy, and a sanitarium. Despite these endeavors, the final structure, boasting over 100 rooms, closed its doors in the early twentieth century.
Following the resort's closure, the property remained under private ownership, limiting public access. While ventures like the Chick Springs Swimming Pool operated intermittently, sustained public engagement was minimal. In 2017, the Niemela family acquired the property with the stipulation that key portions would eventually be transformed into a public park. In May 2024, Taylors TownSquare acquired the property, aiming to restore and preserve its historical significance. However, in September 2024, Hurricane Helene caused significant damage, including the destruction of the spring house. As of January 2025, Taylors TownSquare is collaborating with a historic preservation specialist to assess the current conditions and develop a restoration plan for the site's key structures.
Greenville County Council Member Mike Barnes (left), Taylors TownSquare President Alex Reynolds (center), and For 8 Corporation Project Manger Lily Niemela (right) at the Chick Springs site after the title signing on May 29.
Taylor TownSquare acquired the 8.62 acres shown on this plat, including the historic spring house at Chick Springs.
The Present and Future
Taylors TownSquare has taken the lead in bringing a public park at Chick Springs to fruition. Working with the founding members of the former Chick Springs Historical Society and other community members, we are actively working to preserve and open up the property so that all the public can learn about and enjoy this historic location in the upstate.
The next steps include:
Developing a master plan for usage and safety
Working towards linkage with a potential Enoree River Trailway
Transferring it eventually to Greenville County Recreation for long-term protection
How You Can Help
Additional financial support is necessary to ensure success.
Would you consider a one-time or recurring donation to Taylors TownSquare to further these efforts to preserve this lovely, historic property?
Your contribution will assist with the following:
Restoring the existing historical structures
Maintaining the grounds
Adding signage to explain the history
Finishing the parking area
Rebuilding the bridge over Lick Creek
Subscribing to Taylors TownSquare emails here will also add you to the list to be notified about upcoming happenings involving Chick Springs. Make sure to select Chick Springs.