Rooted in Sterling. Committed to Its Future.
Founded in 2010 by residents, Sterling High School alumni, and community supporters, Sterling Land Trust works to preserve the neighborhood’s history, strengthen community connections, and expand affordable housing opportunities.
Our work honors the people who built Sterling while investing in the generations who will carry its legacy forward.
What Does a Community Land Trust Do?
A community land trust holds and stewards land for long-term community benefit. Retaining ownership of land helps support lasting affordability and keeps community priorities at the center of development.
For Sterling Land Trust, that work connects housing, historic preservation, and neighborhood sustainability.
Our History
The Sterling neighborhood of Greenville, South Carolina has a rich and enduring history. For generations, Sterling was home to a thriving African American community — one defined by strong institutions, deep family roots, and a spirit of collective achievement.
At the center of that community stood Sterling High School, which served Black students in Greenville County from 1896 until integration in 1970. Sterling High produced generations of graduates who became educators, civic leaders, entrepreneurs, and advocates. Its alumni network remains active and deeply connected to the neighborhood’s identity and future.
Like many historically Black neighborhoods across the South, Sterling faced significant pressures over the decades — from urban renewal policies to disinvestment and displacement. Through it all, residents and alumni maintained their commitment to the community, working to preserve its history and sustain its future.
Sterling Land Trust was founded in 2010 to carry that commitment forward — providing a community-led structure for protecting land, expanding affordable housing, and honoring the legacy of the people who built Sterling.
Our Commitment in Action
An Established Foundation
In November 2019, Sterling Land Trust celebrated its first affordable rental home, establishing a foundation for its housing work.
Expanding Housing Opportunities
Through its partnership with Greenville Housing Fund, Sterling Land Trust is building on that accomplishment with The Huddle at Sterling, a workforce affordable housing development bringing 10 long-term rental homes to the neighborhood.
Preserving Sterling’s Legacy
The Sterling Community Memorial Grove will honor Sterling High School and its lasting impact. Phase One is starting soon.
Our Board
Shirley Allmond
James L Thompson
President of Sterling Land Trust
Dot Russell
Sterling Resident and President of Sterling Community Center
Sylvia Vandross
Sterling Pride Farms Manager
S.T. Peden
Mack Lockhart
Jameka Murphy
Josh Good
Help Shape Sterling’s Next Chapter
Whether you are a resident, alumnus, neighbor, or community partner, you can help preserve Sterling’s history and strengthen its future.