In 2003, Six Mile resident Conrad Ardell Bryson bequeathed more than 62 acres to the town for the benefit of economically challenged children. A significant stretch of greenspace, the land has a pond and a wetlands area. Given these features the gift fits into the goal stated in the Town of Six Mile’s comprehensive plan of protecting greenspace, especially the scenic views approaching Six Mile Mountain. 

To establish a children’s nature walk on the property, town officials worked closely with Bryson’s estate representatives as well as the local land trust Upstate Forever, a group dedicated to preserving the lands, waters and character of South Carolina’s Upstate. Although resolving issues involved in the bequest produced a delay of more than 17 years, the collaborative efforts now have fulfilled the terms of the will and protected the land in perpetuity through a conservation easement, which maintains the land’s pristine features.  

The project received $8,000 in closing costs from the Upstate Land Conservation Fund, as well as federal American Rescue Plan Act funds. The town continues to work with Bryson’s estate and accepts private donations from residents and businesses to maintain the facility.  

The property will also offer an outdoor learning area and garden for students of the adjoining Six Mile Elementary School, where Bryson served as a volunteer. 

Contact Mayor James Atkinson at mayoratkinsonsixmile@gmail.com or 864.868.2653.