In 1928, a group of citizens interested in preserving the rich history of the area founded the Upper Carolina Historical Society which remained active until the Depression.

In 1961, the work of this early group was again recognized by several "history minded Greenvillians" who formed the Greenville Historical Records Committee.

The present Greenville County Historical Society is the organization founded by the Records Committee and based upon the foundation of the Upper Carolina Historical Society. The Society has over 500 members and a permanent headquarters at 211 E. Washington St, Greenville, SC 29603.

The purpose of the Greenville County Historical Society is three-fold:

1) To collect and preserve those documents, records and other materials which comprise the history of Greenville County and the surrounding area.

2) To sponsor programs, publications and exhibitions pertaining to the history and culture of the region.

3) To help establish a permanent repository and museum in Greenville County.

The office and gift shop are open to visitors Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 9 am - 12:30 am and Thursday 1 pm - 5:30 pm.