DARLINGTON — The Lafayette County Historical and Genealogy Society (LCHGS) is hoping to raise enough funds to purchase a new boiler system before winter. The new heating unit is needed for the original Carnegie Library, located at 525 Main Street in Darlington. The Society has maintained the building since 2000. The Carnegie Museum houses several artifacts, documents, articles of clothing, and bits of history that have been part of the Lafayette County heritage for more than 175 years.

The benefit auction is planned for Saturday, September 19 in the Floral Hall, at the Lafayette County Fairgrounds, beginning at 10 a.m. The artifacts and donations from the museum are NOT being sold, however there will be antiques, vintage items, and bits of history that will be sold from the personal collections of the Society’s board members, supporters, and their families. Look for bar ware and soda pop items, framed prints and artwork, household items, along with vintage and modern collections. Several gift baskets have been generously donated by area businesses, individuals, and organizations.

The heating system has been in need of an upgrade for a while, however it was discovered last winter that the heating unit was failing. The building which was built in 1905 was built with hot water radiator heat, and powered by 31-year-old boilers. The system uses two boilers that support one another. Since the old building is unable to accommodate ductwork for forced air heat, new boilers are needed. The copper pipes throughout the building can deliver the heat throughout, once new boilers are installed.

LCHGS the non-profit organization that has recently restored the Octagon Building at the Lafayette County Fairgrounds, and the 1937 caboose on the tracks beside the Darlington Depot on Washington Street. All properties are open to the public free of charge, and welcome tours and school groups anytime by appointment. It is the continued mission of the society to collect, preserve, and share the history of Lafayette County’s places, events, and people. Some of the artifacts that most people find interesting include original artwork by painters and artists from Lafayette County, promotional items from businesses of the area’s past, several school yearbooks, photographs, ledgers, records, and other documents. Family tree and Genealogy information is also a large-part of interest for guests.

LCHGS is a non-profit (501.c.3) charitable organization of volunteers that depends on member dues, donations, and fundraisers to pay the bills and maintain the buildings. Grant funding is regularly sought for larger projects.

Auction bids begin at 10 a.m. The Darlington Lions Club will be serving concessions.