Next to an old furnace inside the history museum, Wayne Edwards used a screw gun to nail new wood on the floor.

With the help of his father, Billy Edwards, he was glad to have a hand with making sure visitors have a sturdy foundation to walk on. Their business, Edwards Carpet Sales & Installation, was hired for subflooring work. It also includes placing new tile and carpet over it.

Renovations at the history museum began in the summer. One of the first tasks was replacing a fence, which stood about 20 years. Other work involved painting inside and outside of the building complex.

Although renovations are underway, Administrative Assistant Chrissy Carr, said it’s mostly effecting the main building.

“The museum has been here for 20 years, so these are much need renovations,” she said.

At one time, Carr said the building was used as a headquarters for the parks an recreation department. The house, a two-story building facing Lisbon Street was originally built in the early 1900s.

“It’s an old building, so the floors have seen their better days,” Carr said. “We wanted to try to preserve some of the hardwood floors.”

As promoters of the past, Carr said it’s important to keep the historical significance of the building and areas such as interior steps, but that can be challenging.

“It’s kind of hard because of all the wear and tear over the years,” she said.

The public may visit other buildings for tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. Admission is free.

“We have nine other buildings that are open,” Carr said.

Carr said the organization would like to have upgrades finished before the annual Craft Demonstration Day, scheduled for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14.

Some of the talent that will be put on display include blacksmith forging, soap making, beekeeping, woodworking and quilting. More craft professionals are welcome to join the festivity. There is no charge to have a space at the museum.

“It’s a great way to reach out to the community and raise awareness about the history museum,” Carr said about visitors enjoying the attractions and listening to live music.

During Craft Day, visitors will receive open tours as well. The event coincides with the annual Court Square Street Fair and Barbecue Cook-Off. Some of the activities include the a 5K run, a breast cancer awareness rally, car show and live music.

“We’re looking forward to seeing everybody with the cooler weather and hopefully we’ll keep those storms away,” Carr said about weather events such as Hurricane Matthew, which cancelled Street Fair in 2016. “That really effected everyone last year.”

The museum is also looking for volunteers for upcoming events such as Craft Day and a groundbreaking ceremony for a military museum, which is scheduled for Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov. 11. After the ceremony, it will be the 11th building. Officials are also planning activities for the annual Christmas in the City during December. Some of the work includes yard work, cleaning or leading tours.

“We are always looking for volunteers,” Carr said. “It’s a busy time of year.”

For more information about volunteering, contact the museum at 910-590-0007.

Wayne Edwards and Billy Edwards make renovations to the Sampson County History Museum.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/web1_Museum_2-1.jpgWayne Edwards and Billy Edwards make renovations to the Sampson County History Museum.

Renovations are underway at the Sampson County History Museum. Edwards Carpet Sales & Installation of Clinton is assisting with the process.
https://www.clintonnc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/web1_Museum_1-1.jpgRenovations are underway at the Sampson County History Museum. Edwards Carpet Sales & Installation of Clinton is assisting with the process.

By Chase Jordan

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