City Council asked to help preserve Bishopville High

By RANDY BURNS
Item Staff Writer
rburns@theitem.com

BISHOPVILLE – A few friends of Bishopville High School attended Tuesday's City Council meeting to ask for support in their efforts to restore the old high school building.

Friends of Bishopville High School spokesman John Reames, a graduate of the school, told council the "focus of group is directed toward the preservation, renovation and reuse of the historic building located on North Main Street."

Razing the building for a parking lot is not an option, Reames said.

"We're not here asking for money," Reames said. "We're just asking for your support. The purpose of my presence here this evening is to raise your awareness of our efforts to that end and to ask for your support and much-needed help in pulling together for this worthwhile project."

Bishopville High, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in October 2004, is owned by the Lee County Board of Education. The structure was built in 1936, closed its doors in May 2000 and has been vacant ever since.

Since its closing, the building has been a favorite place for vandals. Windows are broken. Broken glass and plaster are scattered throughout the two-story building. Floors are soft and have broken through in places. Ceilings are hanging down, and there are holes in the roof.

Council members listened attentively and asked questions, but they did not formally issue a statement of endorsement or support.

For more details about Tuesday's council meeting, read Thursday's edition of The Item.