A decade ago, I took great pride in leading the initiative to revitalize the historic Roundtop Filling Station in Sherwood, rescuing it from possible demolition and transforming it into a Sherwood Police substation. This endeavor was not just about saving a building—it was about celebrating our town’s heritage while addressing contemporary needs.
The Roundtop has always stood as a cherished landmark, and converting it into a facility that serves and safeguards our community felt like a fitting way to honor its legacy. I have always valued the preservation of historical buildings, particularly when they can be repurposed for the benefit of the public. This is why I hold immense respect for the efforts of the citizens of Waldron in reviving the old Scott County Courthouse.
What was once a vacant courthouse in the small town has been rehabilitated and now serves as the Scott County Museum of History. This nonprofit venture opened its doors in May 2022 and has quickly become a source of pride for the community.
Though the concept for the museum had been discussed for years, real progress began in 2021. Local historian Ty Richardson and Carolyn Hannah reached out to collector Gary Blythe about contributing his extensive collection of artifacts. Blythe agreed, and with the support of volunteers and local leaders, his lifetime of collecting became the foundation of the new museum.
“Gary dedicated decades to gathering these historical pieces,” Richardson noted. “We knew they deserved to be preserved right here in Scott County, where their significance resonates most.”
The museum has a threefold mission: to educate the public, preserve historical artifacts, and celebrate the heritage of Scott County.
Inside the courthouse, visitors will discover a remarkable array of items. The collection features Native American artifacts, Civil War memorabilia, 19th-century tools and furniture, and uniforms from both World Wars. Additionally, more than 200 firearms are on display, along with medical tools, pottery, and local artwork.
A dedicated archives room features rotating temporary exhibits, enticing visitors to return time and again.
Museum leaders emphasize that this institution is a shared treasure for the people of Scott County. Admission is free, and the facility is fully accessible, equipped with ADA-compliant ramps, sidewalks, and reserved parking.
“This isn’t merely a building filled with relics,” explained Carolyn Hannah, a museum supporter. “It serves as a gathering space for families, students, and neighbors to connect with our shared history.”
Local schools are already incorporating museum visits into their curriculum, offering students a chance to experience history firsthand.
Like many small museums face, the challenges of funding and increasing visibility persist. Since achieving 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 2022, the organization relies heavily on donations and the support of volunteers. However, the leadership also sees potential in expanding outreach to schools, forging partnerships with other museums, and hosting special community events to draw in more visitors.
For now, the museum is fulfilling its original mission — revitalizing a historic building and providing Scott County with a venue to celebrate and preserve its stories.
“This museum represents more than history,” said Richardson. “It embodies our pride in our community.”
In a world that often moves too fast, small towns and museums such as the Scott County Museum of History remind us of the strength found in close connections and shared purpose — a reminder worth celebrating and preserving.
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