Cayce’s Historical Transformation: A New Beginning for a Century-Old School
Welcome to Cayce, South Carolina, where history meets modern living! The town is buzzing with excitement as plans unfold to breathe new life into the old Cayce Grammar School. This century-old building, which has been a silent witness to many memories since 1913, is about to embark on a new journey. Say hello to Hattie’s Crossing, a residential development that promises to honor the legacy of an extraordinary educator, Miss Hattie Derrenbacher, while serving the community in a fresh, modern way!
Honoring a Pioneer: Miss Hattie Derrenbacher
Who is Miss Hattie, you ask? Well, she was the very first teacher in Cayce, and her story is as charming as it gets! Back in the early 1900s, Miss Hattie opened her home to a handful of eager young learners, starting with just nine students from grades one through seven. That humble beginning took place around her cozy kitchen fireplace. Can you picture it? Children gathered around as she introduced them to the world of letters and numbers!
According to Andy Thomas, curator of the Cayce Historical Museum, her pioneering spirit and dedication to education paved the way for a more formal school setup just two years later. In 1915, the classes moved to a larger gym, which eventually grew into what we know as Cayce Grammar School!
A Long Abandoned Building Gets a New Purpose
The Cayce Grammar School stood strong until 1976, after which it became dormant and lonely, merely a shell of its former self. But don’t you worry! That’s all about to change! Hattie’s Crossing will not only breathe new life into this historical location but will also bring twelve new homes, ranging from 1,200 to 1,600 square feet, to the area.
In a recent speech, Brenda Hafner, superintendent of Lexington Two, pointed out just how crucial it is to nurture the skills that Miss Hattie focused on. “Reading is so important, and math is so important, and really instilling those life skills within our students and the character skills that I think Miss Hattie really focused on with our kids,” she said, reminding everyone that these timeless values remain relevant.
Creating a Community with a Heart
As part of this development, we’re also looking at some lovely enhancements to the area. Imagine walking along tree-lined sidewalks where neighbors can connect and share stories! The new homeowners’ association will work diligently to maintain the beauty and charm of this community, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Preserving the Legacy of Education
It’s heartwarming to see how the leaders of today keep Miss Hattie’s vision alive. According to Thomas, “Anytime you’ve got someone who is a leader in the field, a first in the field, it’s important to honor that legacy.” It’s a beautiful reminder that education has always been essential for success in life, and honoring those like Miss Hattie ensures that we continue to value this aspect in our community.
A Bright Future for Cayce
As Cayce moves forward with this exciting project, it stands as a testament to how history can seamlessly blend with progress. Hattie’s Crossing is not just about building homes; it’s about building a community that cherishes its past while looking forward to the future.
So, keep your eyes peeled, Cayce! Change is coming, and it’s looking pretty bright!
