The old Colfax Cotton Gin in Ellenboro is being transformed into a park and public space for the community, which is part of Rutherford Bound’s mission to revitalize local assets.
The site has long been a symbol of the town of Ellenboro’s agricultural and industrial roots.
For generations, cotton ginning and textile production shaped daily life, supporting families, fueling the local economy and leaving an enduring mark on the town’s identity, according to Rutherford Bound.
Now, the Colfax Cotton Gin is being reimagined as a community space.
“One of the things that’s exciting about this project is that we’re trying to reuse old relics from the mill to help paint the picture of how this mill operated,” said Ed McLean, landscape architect.
“This would’ve been one of the main community spaces within Ellenboro.”
The future park will include a farmers market pavilion, an event stage, a picnic shelter and a playground. There will also be restrooms and native landscaping.
According to Rutherford Bound, the park will bring lasting value, enhancing quality-of-life for residents and giving visitors a reason to stop, explore and support local businesses.
“This project has been years in the making, and it means so much to see our town’s vision coming to life,” said Ellenboro Mayor Liz Blanton. “Colfax Cotton Gin Park is a celebration of who we are and where we’ve come from.”
The project is anticipated to break ground later this year.