Grace Returns to the Waters of Lowcountry
As the summer sun shines over the beautiful Lowcountry, a sense of excitement fills the air. The historic pre-World War I yacht, known as Grace, has been lovingly restored and is ready to glide across the waters of Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina. This stunning vessel is not just any boat; it holds tales and memories that span over a century. Grace is now operational, inviting residents and visitors alike to embark on a journey through the region’s rich history.
The Heart of the Community
The Grace Club, a passionate group founded by members of Palmetto Bluff, spearheads the maintenance and restoration of this magnificent yacht. According to Penny Baldwin-Leonard, a founding member of The Grace Club, “Everyone is welcome to enjoy Grace.” The goal is to make Grace a cherished addition to the lives of people in Beaufort, Savannah, and Charleston. With a blend of history and leisure, the yacht aims to become a vital part of the community fabric.
A Journey Through Time
Originally commissioned in 1913 by New York shoe manufacturer Joseph B. Cousins, Grace was first known as Sispud II. Over the years, it changed hands multiple times, serving various purposes. One of its most fascinating chapters includes its time as the residence of James Adams of the James Adams Floating Theatre, which hosted incredible guests, including the famous novelist Edna Ferber. Her experiences aboard Grace even inspired her to write the hit Broadway production, Showboat.
Dr. Gray C. Stahlman, the historian for The Grace Club, shares that this yacht has been through quite a lot. “It has had four names and nine owners in its life,” he explains. “It’s been integral to the writing of a renowned novel, linked to couple of ghost stories, and may have been involved in a murder!” With such a colorful history, it’s no wonder that Grace is seen as a treasure.
A Heartfelt Restoration
The yacht was renamed Grace to honor Grace Graham Wilson, a woman from an illustrious family who was the youngest sister of R.T. Wilson Jr., the original buyer of the Palmetto Bluff land. Her socialite status in her time earned her the nickname, “The Queen of the Golden Age.” Though her own story is an intriguing one, it’s the vessel’s tale of survival that captures the present-day community’s heart.
Grace’s journey hit a major bump when it suffered a significant engine failure in 2021. Left docked at a Beaufort marina, the yacht seemed destined for abandonment. However, it was discovered by Captain Lee Leonard, also a founding member of The Grace Club. Recognizing the yacht’s potential, he rallied a dedicated group of 45 families from Palmetto Bluff to restore Grace to its former glory.
A New Chapter
Thanks to Operation Saving Grace, this beloved yacht was back in the water by November 2023. Social cruises and private charters are part of its offerings, ensuring that locals and tourists can relish in the maritime magic of the area. Lee Leonard reveals a broader vision for Grace: “We want to inspire the next generation. We are working on educational platforms to draw children into the rich heritage of our locality.”
A Bright Future Ahead
Penny Baldwin-Leonard emphasizes the importance of Grace in the community’s future. “Grace remains a vital, cherished asset within the Bluffton, Beaufort, Hilton Head, Savannah, and Charleston communities for many years to come.” With its storied past and promising future, Grace looks set to sail into the hearts of many, spinning new tales that echo the essence of the Lowcountry.
While Hurricane Helene posed challenges for the vessel, the community’s spirit to support and restore Grace shines brightly. Those wishing to aid in her ongoing restoration are encouraged to visit The Grace Club’s website for donation options. This shared love for history, connection, and the sea is what keeps the legend of Grace alive!
