Resilience and Restoration: The Story of Grace in Palmetto Bluff
Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina, is buzzing with excitement this summer, and it’s more than just the warm weather that has everyone thrilled. The star of the show is none other than Grace, a stunning vintage yacht that has a rich and colorful history, now docked and ready for adventure in this charming town.
A Historic Gem
Grace, a pre-World War I wooden yacht, was originally known as the Sispud II when it was commissioned back in 1913 by none other than Joseph B. Cousins, a New York shoe manufacturer. Since then, this beautiful vessel has changed hands multiple times, earning a place in the hearts of many throughout its storied past. It has served various purposes, including being the residence of James Adams, who operated the James Adams Floating Theatre.
Now, let’s talk about the eclectic guests this yacht has welcomed over the years! Perhaps most notably, novelist Edna Ferber took inspiration from her time aboard Grace, penning her famed book “Showboat,” which later became an iconic Broadway hit. Not to mention, numerous ghost stories and even a rumored murder have been sprinkled in amidst the yacht’s adventurous timeline.
A New Chapter
Fast forward to 2021, and Grace faced a dire situation. The vessel suffered a catastrophic engine failure that left it stranded in a marina in Beaufort. Luckily, hope was on the horizon, thanks to a determined group of individuals who came together to save the yacht. Led by Captain Lee Leonard and his wife, Penny Baldwin-Leonard, with support from 45 families in the Palmetto Bluff area, the Grace Club was formed to restore the beloved boat.
“Grace is literally part of the foundational fabric of the Palmetto Bluff community. This is why we felt compelled to save it,” says Captain Lee, highlighting the yacht’s significance to local history and culture. They labeled their mission “Operation Saving Grace,” which, fittingly, proved to be a success. By November 2023, Grace was back in action and ready to sail the waters once more.
A Focus on Community and Education
Grace isn’t just a stunning vessel; it’s also a tool for community engagement and education. The Grace Club aims to expand its reach beyond social cruises and private charters. “We are working with someone who specializes in developing educational platforms to inspire children and engage them,” notes Lee, emphasizing the importance of instilling a love for local history in younger generations.
Penny echoes this sentiment, pointing out how they hope that Grace will continue to serve as “a vital, cherished, and beloved asset within the Bluffton, Beaufort, Hilton Head, Savannah, and Charleston communities for many years to come.” With such a rich past and even brighter future on the horizon, who wouldn’t want to be part of the story?
The Impact of Nature
While the future looks promising, it’s important to mention that Grace has faced challenges recently. Following the devastation of Hurricane Helene, which has caused substantial damage to the yacht, the community is once again coming together. The Grace Club is actively seeking support for restoration efforts, emphasizing that everyone can play a role in this journey.
To contribute to Grace’s restoration and ensure it continues to hold a significant place in both history and community memory, donations can be made through The Grace Club’s website.
Final Thoughts
Grace’s journey is not just about a boat; it’s a story of community, history, and resilience. As she sails into a new chapter, there’s no doubt that she will continue to create unforgettable memories for residents and visitors alike, forever intertwining the past and the present.
