City Directories and History: The Yorkville Enquirer reported on Aug. 26, 1891 – “Mrs. Martha Castles is having a dwelling house erected on the corner of Wylie Ave. and Chestnut Streets.” (It is unclear if this is the exact house that became the orphanage but most likely.)
This was the site of the ARP Orphanage on Wylie Street at the turn of the 20th century. See information on the orphanage on the Hickory Grove ARP page, R&R History Link, this page.
From the Rock Hill Herald, November 28, 1900 – The Grier Orphanage Should be Remembered on Thanksgiving
To the editor of the Rock Hill Herald,
Please allow me the privilege of speaking to the public through the pages of the Herald in behalf of the Grier Orphanage, at Hickory Grove, York County, S. C. It is the youngest in the South and its very youthfulness appeals strongly to all who love to help the poor. It is now under the care of the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church. National Thanksgiving days come but once a year, and it is a favorable time for a highly favored people to show their gratitude and their religion also, by giving to the poor. I hope the fatherless in this and every other orphanage will be made thankful and comfortable by the thank offerings on next Thursday. Those under my care are holding out their hands to receive anything that will be good for their souls and bodies. The first thing that a child needs to make it comfortable in this life is something to eat and wear. All of these things or money are needed at the Grier Orphanage.
John H. Simpson, Supt.
Hickory Grove, S. C. November 23, 1900
The Rock Hill Herald reported on Dec. 20, 1902 – “Rev. J.H. Simpson, of the Hickory Grove Orphanage was in Rock Hill on Thursday. He was accompanied by Ms. Beatrice Mills, the efficient matron, who assists in looking after and caring for the fatherless and motherless little ones in this noble institution. Everything there is getting along nicely and Mr. Simpson says there are sixteen enrolled, and that he has on fill several application for admission. ”
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