BY: Betty Stack
The upstate is quickly becoming not only a popular spot for northern transplants, but also a “famed” area of beautiful rolling hills- the foothills of the Piedmont. Much of this land heralds being passed down generation to generation. For example, Pam Merritt, local realtor and Clemson alum, returned from Charlotte to her roots, to claim her late grandmother’s home, and raise her daughter on Wigington and Merritt land. This all lead to Merritt Harrington (Pam’s daughter) developing a love for the Powdersville farmland and its flavor- riding horses and taking in the peace and calm that nature offers. Located just off Highway 81 is Rose Hill Equestrian Center which represents a lifelong dream of Merritt’s, as well as her Mama’s. On June 21st a Blessing of the Barn took place culminating days, hours and weeks of work with contractors, designs and a lot of faith on Merritt and Pam’s parts.
Merritt is a local Wren High graduate who continued the Clemson tradition and started there as a Pre-Vet major but decided instead of veterinary medicine that her own barn, complete with lessons for aspiring riders, as well as a home for her favorite animals and to even board some others was what she really wanted to do. Hence, Rose Hill Equestrian Center was born. Ideas became a reality and the place is gorgeous, from the smells of freshly carved wood to blankets of straw all in a specially painted “Black Barn” slightly off to a hill, dirt roads welcoming current and future riders to a new venue with a promising future, and a piece of Merritt land providing a glimpse of the past. Both ladies send a special note of thanks to Jeff Cooper and Stanley Orr for their construction expertise in helping to make Merritt’s dream a reality. What started at the age of eight for Merritt has come to fruition for a young lady who relocated to “home” land and now proudly owns nine horses. In fact Merritt said “Six horses currently live here as well and there is room for four more.” Forty-five acres are sitting there as a reminder of peace and pleasure. Merritt lives in one of the houses on the property, with husband Cameron, Mama Pam is there as well and of course her grandparents. Life is good from the farms to the horses. It is worth the time to make a visit to Rose Hill Equestrian Center. You just may catch yourself wanting to learn to ride, or at least take in the scenery. Too bad if you missed the Blessing of the Barn, the champagne, and the camaraderie- so do not miss the opportunity to visit. Good luck and best wishes Merritt Harrington with your childhood dream.
Rose Hill Equestrian Center
1914 3 Bridges Road
Easley, South Carolina 29624
1-864-354-4558