Editor's note: This letter, published in The Times and Democrat on Dec. 5, 1996, was written by Lois Lusty, who was honored during the 10th anniversary celebration of the Orangeburg Arts Center, now known as the Orangeburg County Fine Arts Center.

I write this letter as a humble apology and tribute to the remarkable and unselfish people who first "restored" the Orangeburg Arts Center.

It was in 1983 that Art Lusty and I walked the grounds and were so enthralled at the possibilities we saw in that sad beauty of a building. Not knowing to whom it belonged, or "why" it was so dilapidated and neglected, I countered with, "Why buy the North Road house when this could be a lovely spot for our new Orangeburg home?"

The view from the parkway enhanced the site, making a regal and lovely place for a home. However, on investigation and some conferencing with Mayor Pendarvis, we were soon put to rights. The next thought was to restore, mend and use this beautiful old relic as an arts center for all our people.

Of course, how much, who and what personnel could we attract to get this done? Nothing daunted, we put aside the plans for the North Road home and promptly, with permission in hand from the city, moved Art's tools and machinery to the center. And what a response! Like flies to honey, men on their way to work, women who long to straighten and rebuild, we had a crew of people who faithfully came to help. At least a hundred plus or more gathered to lend a hand, and tools, and their expertise.

Every day, for more than a year, craftsmen, ladies, and good will from companies and builders lent and gave their materials and help. Monies from $1 to $25 came in almost every day and we were able to buy the nails and boards. We also took some flack from a few who thought we were desecrating their beloved building. Interesting comment is that those most opposed became ardent workers, contributors and supporters. How could it be otherwise? It became a beloved place to work together. It must also be noted that other towns, where people hungered for the beauty for which we were all hoping, participated and shared. Everyone, all, contributed unselfishly. Saturdays, Sundays, afternoons and after work, people, businesses in paints, lumber, etc. came to help. The monies which were contributed went for trips to the U.S. government in Columbia for equipment and good prices. They were very helpful and committed to our plan. Using some of our whole group's enthusiasm, we had an enormous area for all skills. People came over during lunch hours with Kool-Aid and sandwiches and worked. We were delighted at the willingness to help! And it made us realize how much the whole community yearned for the recovery of their beloved pavilion.

As to advice that we never destroy the outer appearance of the building -- and to the accord that the city would care for the grounds and we would maintain the building -- we have faithfully honored.

This is a long letter, but some things must be recorded. Our organization, "Orangeburg League of the Arts," was a lively contributor in labor and monies. The city and county were very supportive in money and labor! The industries and the businesses gave us materials and personnel. The whole project was like "Honey to the Flies" and we are eternally grateful.

Mentioning names here is a little dangerous, especially when you have so many daily "nail pullers," "sweepers," "gophers," "Kool-Aid Ladies," "painters"(of walls that is) and "dollar givers." But at the risk of bricks flying at my head, I will mention some names, remembering that the slightest gift of money or help were all equally honored by all of us -- and still today! Almost every day, all week, these people came directly from work, George Ware, electrician (still fixing stuff for us), Mary Williams (curtain sewer), Sherry White (wall painter, she is a tall girl), Calvin Richardson (house builder), Landis Sandel (all kinds of stuff), all our local stores (lumber, paints), more stores (music), service organizations, and a million more!

Why do I write this? Several reasons! First, no job is ever ended. We need continued support; yes, monies, but more important, we need your contribution in participation. Remember, this building was meant to give "all people" the opportunity to enjoy and enhance the arts and enrich their lives. Secondly, I humbly apologize for not responding to the glowing account given to me and to Arthur in credit for the arts center at the recent gala. I couldn't talk! So this letter from me to all of you who love the Orangeburg Arts Center as I do, my sincerest thanks for Leo Twiggs, not only for the Wednesday gala, but for his remarkable talent and leadership at our beloved university in including us in the planetarium and art opportunities. So, if you read all of this, I truly thank you for a lovely evening. This saves a lot of stamps.

You must be logged in to comment.