Pontheolla Mack Abernathy

Pontheolla Mack Abernathy, co-owner of Clevedale Historic Inn and Gardens, brings Southern hospitality and culinary excellence to Spartanburg's historic Westside. A University of South Carolina alumna, she returned to her native state after cultivating extensive hospitality experience in Washington, DC, where she successfully managed an executive apartment rental serving distinguished clients from the Federal Communications Commission and Folger Shakespeare Theatre.

At Clevedale, Pontheolla has transformed a magnificent 1913 historic property into a premier bed and breakfast and events destination. Her culinary expertise and attention to detail shine through the Inn's acclaimed gourmet breakfasts and customized guest experiences. Under her stewardship, Clevedale has earned recognition for both its architectural preservation and exceptional service. Pontheolla incorporated a 1947 Southern Railway caboose into the property after hearing the story of Elisabeth Cleveland Welch, the last Cleveland heir to be born on the property. According to Mrs Welch, now deceased, on the night she was born the nearby train broke down and her father walked to the train to invite weary passengers into the house for tea. The caboose is now one of the many B&B experiences at Clevedale.

Her hospitality ventures include past ownership of UnderWraps, a specialty gift basket business in Northwest DC, and Pontheolla's Accessories Unlimited in Alexandria, VA. She currently serves on the One Spartanburg Inc. Executive Committee; PowerUp Advisory Committee; and a mentor with the PowerUp Mentorship Program. Other regional tourism initiatives include Spartanburg County Historical Association; SC African American Heritage Commission; and, MOJA and Spoleto Festivals.

As one guest describes: "The Inn is a gem. The breakfast was gourmet! Crabcakes Benedict prepared by Pontheolla, fresh cranberry-orange-mango juice, and great coffee all served with excellent efficiency... The Inn is a beautiful historic home that has been lovingly restored and converted into a warm and very comfortable place of calm. Pontheolla and Paul, the proprietors, are gracious hosts that made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived."

This dedication to hospitality excellence continues to make Clevedale Historic Inn and Gardens a standout destination in South Carolina's tourism landscape. The encouragement and support of family, friends, and the greater Spartanburg County community has sustained Pontheolla. This Nelson Mandela quote is one of her favs when talking with other entrepreneurs, “A winner is a dreamer who never gives up.”

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