Recreation Center at Palmore Memorial Park

Amenities at the Recreation Center include a seasonal pool, youth activities, picnic area, basketball court, playground, bluebird trail and walking track.

In 2026, the recreation center’s property was renamed Palmore Memorial Park in honor of Minnie Palmore. Palmore was a pioneering African American educator whose dedication left a lasting impact on generations of families in Aiken County. Palmore became the first African American to receive a teaching certificate in Aiken County and continued to devote more than 50 years to teaching in South Carolina public schools. In 1967, Palmore founded the Palmore Kindergarten in Graniteville which was located near where the recreation center stands today.

The stone cottage on the recreation center’s property was also renamed to Hatney House in honor of John Hatney. Hatney was the first Director of Gregg-Graniteville Park, which later became the recreation center. During his 25-year tenure from 1960-1985, he transformed the center into a vibrant community space, expanding athletic, educational, cultural and recreational opportunities for all ages. His leadership, dedication and love for the community created a lasting legacy.