Funds from Mr. Claude J. "Pappy" Hayden made possible the construction of this building in 1979. Originally called the Horticultural Service Center, it was renamed after renovation in 1992 to honor its original donor. Hayden, a Clemson University alumnus, earned a B.S. degree in Horticulture in 1912. After serving on the faculties of Clemson and two other universities, he became co-owner of the Athens Nursery Company in Athens, Alabama. The business prospered, and he gave faithful support to the Department of Horticulture and the Horticulture Gardens, now the South Carolina Botanical Garden.