History

The physical building, Sumlar's Place came into existence in the early 1950's. It was located in the Nicholtown community in Greenville, South Carolina. It was built from used materials such as cement blocks, wood, nails, windows, etc. Since its inception, this building provided a way of life for many. The name Sumlar came from Sammie Hall's grandfather, Sumlar Hall. Sumlar Hall suffeed from asthma and as a result he died at an early age of 66. Nonetheless, he still accomplished so much in such a short era. Father, Papa, Mr. Sumlar, Mr. Hall and the Mayor of Nicholown, is what he was adoringly referred to in his day. Sumlar has a street named in his honor and was an entrepreneur of his day. He said, "If I can make money sitting and with my bad health, what can an able bodied man do?" Sumlar's legacy will be carried on with Sumlar's Place CDC in Nicholtown.
In the early 70's, Sammie Hall became the owner of the building, which was until the last decade a service station. Originally it was a Sinclair, and then it became a Union 76 and lastly, a BP Gas Station. Sammie and his wife Bobbie had many uses fo the building. In this building a party shop, billiard room, BP Service Station and a rental unit, all operated simultaneously. Later the building was rented out and used as a car wash.
Due to the lack of occupancy, the commercial zoning changed. While the building sat vacant for a few years it became run down as well as in need of repair. After an extensive renovation, it is now operating as an outreach ministry for the community. Its renowned name is mentioned in this local outreach ministry program-Rocky Creek-Saved By His Grace Outreach Ministry at Sumlar's Place.