Soapstone Preservation Endowment Reaches $1 Million Goal
- TheGreenvilleBlog
- 2 hours ago
- 2 min read
PICKENS COUNTY, SC -- The Soapstone Preservation Endowment has completed its three-year campaign to create a $1 million endowment safeguarding one of South Carolina’s most powerful stories of faith, freedom, and perseverance.
“With lots of help and God’s blessing, we did it!” said Carlton Owen, Chairman of the Soapstone Preservation Endowment, after a board meeting Tuesday afternoon.
Established in 2022, the Endowment ensures the long-term protection of the Liberia Community and Soapstone Baptist Church, founded by freed slaves in 1865 near Pumpkintown in northern Pickens County. The site includes the historic church, a “slave cemetery,” and a one-room schoolhouse.
The story of Soapstone gained prominence through Mable Owens Clarke, great-granddaughter of the founders, who kept the church alive for 22 years by hosting monthly fish fries.
“My heart is so full knowing that the story of my family and the freed slaves who built this community will never be forgotten,” Clarke said. “When we began, I wasn’t sure we could climb a financial mountain taller than Table Rock.”
Reverend Chester “Chet” Trower, who has led the congregation for nearly 15 years, echoed her sentiment:
“To God be the glory! People from near and far have answered the call to help preserve this sacred place and its story in American history.”
Milestones:
State Matching Funds: Under the leadership of Rep. David Hiott (R–Pickens) and Rep. Chandra Dillard (D–Greenville), the South Carolina legislature pledged $250,000 in matching funds when the Endowment raised its first $250,000.
National Recognition: After two unsuccessful applications, the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund awarded a $250,000 matching grant, propelling the campaign forward.
Community Partnership Challenge: The final push came through the recruitment of the 100th “Partner” — one of 100 businesses, churches, and individuals pledging at least $3,000 each in one-time or cumulative gifts.
“We reached our 100 partners, exceeded our $1 million goal by nearly $100,000, and can now let the endowment grow for a few years before drawing on earnings,” Owen said.
While the milestone has been reached, Owen emphasized that support is still needed and welcome.
“Every gift strengthens the foundation that will keep this story alive for generations to come.”
To learn more or contribute, visit www.soapstonepe.org.

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