This course explores the rich history of the Town of Six Mile, South Carolina, and examines the critical importance of preserving both cultural heritage and greenspace in small towns. Participants will delve into the town’s actual and legendary past, while also engaging with modern conservation efforts that have shaped its present and future. Through real-world examples—such as the preservation of the historic bank building and the creation of the 63-acre Bryson Children's Nature Walk—students will learn about grassroots efforts that earned Six Mile two statewide achievement awards from the Municipal Association of South Carolina. Key topics include: the historical and legendary narratives of Six Mile; the preservation and adaptive reuse of the town’s historic bank (featuring the original 1919 vault); the establishment and stewardship of the Bryson Children's Nature Walk; and conservation easements and sustainable forest management plans. Hands-on learning experiences will include a guided tour of the Town’s History Room, the historic bank building, and the Bryson Nature Walk. Participants can also participate in a trail hike and cleanup. Once completed, the Children’s Garden Area will offer participants a look at how local youth is educated about where their food comes from through hands-on gardening activities. This course encourages reflection on the lasting impact of preservation, highlighting the principle that once history and greenspace are lost, they are gone forever.

Mayor James Atkinson has served as Mayor of Six Mile since December 2023, following 12 years of service on the Town Council. With a strong background in finance, he also spent two years as a County Finance Director. Much of his professional career has been in banking, with a focus on Internal Audit, Risk, and Regulatory roles in both North and South Carolina. A graduate of Clemson University, Mayor Atkinson is deeply rooted in the Pickens County area. He owns a Century Farm in Six Mile that has been in his family for approximately 170 years, underscoring his longstanding connection to the land and community he now serves.