SC estate with ties to slavery, circus and governors could next become a state preserve

The state is considering buying the Goodwill Plantation, where more than a dozen restored buildings tell the land's storied history.

By: Skylar Laird

Outlets: South Carolina Daily Gazette

Published: August 24, 2026

Words: 2,475

Last Updated: 1 month, 3 weeks ago

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EASTOVER — In its past lifetimes, the Goodwill Plantation was a vast farm worked by slaves, a winter home for circus animals and a family hunting retreat.

In its next life, the estate located just south of Columbia could become a state preserve.

The Conservation Fund closed a deal on the property for $13.8 million earlier this month, primarily using a state-funded grant. The nonprofit plans to donate the land back to the state …

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