Rock Hill's Own History Whisperer: Pat Grant

Meet Pat Grant, a name synonymous with Rock Hill history! This local legend is the well-deserved recipient of the 2022 Historic Rock Hill Preservation Award. Pat's dedication to unearthing and sharing the stories of our community goes far beyond a single award – she's a passionate storyteller, a lifelong learner, and a dedicated community champion.

Born and raised in Rock Hill, Pat's curiosity about her own family's roots blossomed into a love for uncovering the stories woven into the fabric of her hometown. This passion fueled her impressive career as a prolific author, gracing the world with 12 history books! Two of her captivating works, "Hamilton Carhartt in Rock Hill, South Carolina: Founder of Carhartt Clothing Creator of Bib Overalls" and "Laurelwood Cemetery: History of Rock Hill's Founding Families," are available for purchase through our online bookstore and on Amazon – perfect for diving deeper into Rock Hill's rich past.

Pat's commitment to sharing knowledge extends beyond the written word. She is also an active participant in the City of Rock Hill's Lifelong Learning Program and Historic Rock Hill's initiatives, Pat is a tireless advocate for preserving our community’s heritage. For 40 years, she put her talents to work at Celanese Corporation in Charlotte. While she was young and prior to retirement, she continued to inspire college age students and adults by teaching at York Tech for nine years.

Looking beyond her professional achievements, we discover a vibrant community spirit. Pat's dedication to her church, St. John's Methodist, is just one example. She's also a champion for environmental causes, having served as the past president of the Regional Sierra Club and a state officer.

If you've ever gazed at the stars above Rock Hill, there's a chance Pat might have played a role in sparking your wonder. She's a founding member and past president of the Carolina Skygazers Astronomy Club, fostering a love for celestial exploration in our community.

And let's not forget her grace on the dance floor! A former ballroom dance instructor and president of several dance clubs in Charlotte, Pat proves that a love for history can coexist beautifully with a zest for life and a passion for movement.

Perhaps the most heartwarming aspect of Pat's story is her deep-rooted connection to Rock Hill. Family is a cornerstone of Pat's life.  Her two sons have built their families in Rock Hill, bringing the joy of 6 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren into the fold. While Pat has experienced the deep sorrow of losing her youngest son five years ago, the love and connection within her extended family continues to be a source of strength and happiness.

Pat Grant is a true inspiration. Her life exemplifies the power of curiosity, dedication to lifelong learning, and a genuine love for the community we call home. The next time you explore a historic corner of Rock Hill, remember Pat Grant. Her dedication, passion, and lifelong commitment to preserving our heritage are an inspiration to us all.

Don't forget!  Explore the remnants of Rock Hill's fascinating past with a self-guided tour of the Carhartt Mansion ruins or Laurelwood Cemetery. Both tours are sure to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the stories that whisper through the ages.