Clarendon County Council Chairman Jay Johnson, Council Member Pat Coker and Rep. Fawn Pedalino issued a joint statement this afternoon outlining a proposed path forward for the Clarendon County Archives, saying they are working to secure funding for repairs to the building and envisioning a temporary relocation of archival materials during that process.
The statement comes after concerns were raised in recent days over the future of the Archives, including the possibility of closure as part of ongoing county budget discussions.
In the statement provided to The Manning Times, Johnson, Coker and Pedalino said:
“Chairman Jay Johnson, Councilman Pat Coker and Representative Fawn Pedalino are actively working together to secure funding through appropriations for necessary improvements to the Clarendon County Archives building. These efforts are aimed at restoring the facility to proper condition and ensuring its long-term preservation.
Due to the current condition of the building, it is not suitable for safely housing archival materials at this time. As a result, items will need to be temporarily relocated until repairs and improvements are completed. Every effort will be made to ensure these materials are handled with care and preserved during this process.
Upon completion, the intent is to donate the Archives building to the Historical Society, ensuring it remains a dedicated space for preserving Clarendon County’s history for future generations.”
Budget discussions surrounding the Archives prompted concern among local historians and residents over what would happen to the building, its contents and public access to historical materials.
Earlier this week, Clarendon County Administrator Walt Ackerman said the county was considering multiple options for the Archives as part of those budget discussions, including transferring operations to the Clarendon County Historical Society or closing the facility and relocating records and documents.
The statement suggests county leaders are now publicly focused on repairs, temporary relocation and the eventual transfer of the building to the Historical Society. Historical Society leaders, however, have previously said they do not believe taking ownership of the Archives building is financially viable. Additional details, including funding, timelines, storage plans and continued public access, have not yet been fully outlined.
Reporting on the issue is ongoing and The Manning Times will be update as more information becomes available.
