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By Linda Simmons

COURTLAND

As 2019 comes to a close and the Christmas spirit of giving increases, often it is a natural thought and desire to share our resources with those charities and organizations which most interest us. In the most recent of times, our country — our nation’s history and every aspect of it — its preservation, and its very truth — have become so deliberately obscured that it leaves a loyal citizen, and especially a history lover, feeling discouraged at losing our own heritage. However, for those of us who know preservation of history contributes to the longevity of preservation of the United States of America, it leaves us even more dedicated to preserving what others would take away — the buildings; the monuments and historical grounds, so that generations to come will know what came before.

It is with that that thought that there is an opportunity available here and now to preserve United States history, Virginia history, Southampton County history, and part of the Historic District of Main Street Courtland, all simultaneously! We have a truly, very rare jewel of a building, duly noted by Virginia Historic Resources, directly across from Southampton County Courthouse. The Mahone’s Tavern and Museum was built in 1796 and is on the Virginia Register of Historic Places in America.

As with any building this age, repair and renovation are constant and ongoing. In 2019, we initiated a capital campaign to raise money for a new roof, which is so badly needed now. A new roof guarantees the security to safely house historic, irreplaceable items and artifacts. Roofing estimates have consistently come in at $30,000. Many of you have graciously given, however, we are far short of that amount of funds at this time. We cannot let this building be endangered or compromised. In the past 10 years, Mahone’s Tavern and Museum has supported Heritage Day, Down Home Day, Christmas Open Houses; School Groups, Virginia Deptartment of Tourism Groups; Ruritan clubs; car clubs, private tours for individuals and families; and list is endless.

Please read more at the website, www.mahonestavern.org. Our pictures are informational and beautiful as well. If you would be so inclined and wish donate to the Capital Campaign for 2019, please make your donation to Mahone’s Tavern and Museum, P.O. Box 565, Courtland, VA, 23837; or, you may donate through PayPal via the website. At this time, we would like to say thank you again to the many, many of you whom have supported the Tavern in the past 10 years — the dream of preservation came alive and is very real. It would never have been possible without your support!

Folks, it’s not just an old building — it’s our home, it’s our life, our history —- and our future. Without these places, their preservation and their stories—- our country will never be the same. We all see that. “You can’t know where you’re going if you don’t know where you’ve been. Thank you again.

If you have any questions, would like a tour, or more information,you may call Warren Simmons, president, at 653-2613. A list of our board members is found on the website, along with tremendous amounts of history and a wealth of information.