Englewood Textile Museum — Attraction in Englewood

I was born/raised in this small town, grew up there in the 40's & 50's & stopped in recently to look at new additions, changes, etc. & was disappointed that the museum has fallen into disrepair, much like the town itself. When I lived there in what was probably its heyday the town was thriving, had several textile mills in operation and provided jobs to many of the area residents. The town was vibrant with hundreds of residents, most of whom are now deceased or moved elsewhere. The museum was founded by Helen Brown a lifelong resident along with several other folks who are now deceased or inactive. Mrs Brown was an enthusiastic, dedicated leader who took great pride in the museum & promoted it through obtaining grants, etc. Sadly, the museum is apparently managed by a person or persons who have no interest in maintaining what the founders envisioned.

The building that houses the museum was donated by the Brient family whose ancestors were the town's pioneers. It is my understanding that all of the Brient descendants reside out of state , never lived in the town, and no longer have any interest in the museum. The building is a fire hazard and appears to be in danger of caving in destroying what remains of its artifacts. The interior is dark & dingy (only a few lights were turned on). The person on duty (alone) was nice/friendly but obviously disinterested in offering assistance or turning lights on for that matter. The museum portion of the building has been relegated to the fartherest & darkest section from the entrance . Two thirds of the space now houses the "antiques" from which the proceeds of its sales are to support the museum however, it resembles an indoor flea market with most of the items randomly displayed in no particular order or by category.

I don't understand why the residents of the town who grew up there don't recognize how badly the museum has completely disintegrated and volunteer to help get it back on track to return the museum to its original condition and objectives even if it requires its current "leaders" to resign or clean up its act.

If the town's present leaders would take a little pride in whats left of Englewood it might inspire the remaining townsfolk to follow suit. The town still...

Stopped here while traveling yesterday. Purchased about a dozen items. Paid by bank card. Checked bank purchases this morning to find lady charged my card twice. I'm sure it was an honest mistake however I am just completing process of cleaning of my experience with...

So thankful for this historic museum to be here. Knowledgeable volunteers and staff. As a former archaeologist and historical preservationist, this is the best part of...