Red Springs Historical Museum

08/07/2026

FRIDAY HERITAGE HIGHLIGHTS!

In 1852 as the health-giving waters had attracted more and more settlers, Malcolm Jr., grandson of "Sailor" Hector, built a hotel on the hill above the spring, a long, low house with a piazza running the length of the front, which was patronized for upwards of 40 years. At his death, his brother, "Red" Hector, took control. In 1891 a new and larger building was erected near the same site by S.R. Townsend and called Hotel Townsend, and which served the public for nearly a half century longer. Becoming unsafe, eventually it was closed and donated to the college and parts used to build a gymnasium there. The land was sold and now the site is occupied by the Mac-Land Chevrolet, Inc. The opening of the first hotel on July 4, 1852 was a great event. The Lumber Bridge Light Infantry came over and took part in the festivities. That same year Malcolm and his brother-in-law, A.D. McNeill, built and operated the first store, and a small frame school building was erected near the hotel and was also used for religious and social gatherings. About this time agricultural fairs were begun and held each year until the outbreak of the War Between the States. In the early 1880's they were renewed, large buildings erected, a race track laid off, and were great occasions for a number of years. One very special occasion in the middle 80's was the presence of Ex-Governor Zebulon Vance, the much beloved "War" Governor. He was met at the depot by a procession of outstanding citizens and the route from there to the fair grounds in the northern part of town has ever since been known as Vance Avenue.

Quotations from The Robesonian of August 14, 1878, speak thus: "Red Springs, the delightful resort, now offers superior advantages to a limited number of select guests, as the hotel is refurnished this season and with daily mail connection." And again, "Don't forget the picnic at Red Springs next Saturday. This place is becoming a favorite resort under new management. There is no doubt about the medicinal properties of the water." But in 1884 a little booklet entitled, "All about Robeson County" remarks, "All that is necessary to make the Springs a place of resort for the general public is good hotel accommodations. The property where the springs are located is owned by gentlemen of capital and enterprise, so it is hoped such accommodations will be soon effected." The August issue of the town paper, The Scottish Chief, in 1888 says, "Capt. Blocker has built a bathing house at the spring for the accommodation of the hotel boarders. Give us a finer hotel, skating rink, ten-pin alley, and other attractions and the place will be over-run with visitors." In 1880, John McEachin started a turpentine still, located about where the cotton platforms are. Later it was bought by the Buie brothers who also ran a general store nearby.

The years 1884-85 were momentous ones for the little village. Up to that time communication with the outside world was slow. Mail was brought from Lumberton two or three times a week by a man driving a sulky or dog cart, his approach being announced by a bugle blast.

(EXCERPT FROM A BRIEF HISTORY OF RED SPRINGS BY MRS GEORGE BULLOCK)

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08/04/2026

08/01/2026

Search for your ancestors!

06/21/2026

Father’s Day in the United States began in 1910, when a woman named Sonora Smart Dodd organized a celebration in to honor her father - a Civil War veteran who raised six children on his own after the death of his wife. The idea slowly spread across the country before becoming officially recognized in 1972. It is now celebrated each year on the third Sunday in June.

Looking up at the Washington Monument, it’s hard not to think about legacy and what can be transferred between generations. Rising more than 500 feet above the National Mall, the monument honors George Washington - often called the “Father of His Country.” But it also reminds us that fatherhood can take many forms and set many examples: leadership, protection, sacrifice, service, humility, and the quiet work of teaching, guiding, and helping others grow.

For many people visiting the National Mall today, history feels both shared and personal. Some remember fathers who served in the military. Others think about family traditions, summer celebrations, or simply someone who was present when it mattered most. As the monument rises above the city skyline, it stands as a reminder that the influence of a parent, mentor, or role model can endure far beyond one’s own lifetime.

Happy Father’s Day!

Photo by National Park Service.

06/17/2026

The museum will observe Father’s Day on Sunday, June 21, 2026, and will be closed. We will reopen on the first and third Sunday and Tuesday of the month in July, with hours of operation from 2-5 pm.

06/12/2026

FRIDAY HERITAGE HIGHLIGHTS:

A BRIEF HISTORY OF RED SPRINGS

Red Springs is situated on the Columbia Division of the Atlantic Coast Line, about halfway between Bennettsville, South Carolina and Fayetteville in the healthful long-leaf section of Upper Robeson County. It is 204 feet above sea level and has a mild climate.

Its mineral springs were known for their beneficial qualities long before the town came into being, and later became a mecca, for many who were benefitted by these health-giving waters. The name of the town is derived from the rust colored sediment, caused by iron and sulphur deposits in the water.

The history of the town goes back to March 11, 1775 when "Sailor" Hector McNeill [son of Neill McNeill, Sr. of Jobes Branch who settled near the entrance to Greenbriar on Duffie Road, and a brother of "Shoemaker John" McNeill. "Sailor Hector" was using this nickname as early as 1771 in the Bladen County tax list for that year, and was living with Neill McNeill and a man named John Hart.], one of the first known settlers in this immediate community, received a grant of land from King George III of England, signed by Josiah Martin, Governor of the Province. He also purchased an adjoining tract that had been granted to a George Sizemore in 1767. The little stream back of the old High School buildings is known as Sizemore Branch. These grants cover the present town, including the College Campus. A good part of this property is still owned by McNeill descendants.

McNeill built a house on the Sizemore grant, near where the J.W. Hodgin home now stands, reared a family, lived to a ripe old age, and is buried in the McNeill cemetery in the western part of town, which he had laid off for a burying ground. There has never been a marker to his grave, only a piece of cement marks the spot. He left his son William his property in the village and settled his son Malcolm at nearby Moss Neck. William married Jane McNeill and built their home on the curve of the Maxton highway now enters the town. Ancient oaks still mark the site. His daughter, Nancy, married another McNeill, Archibald, and lived about a mile and a half away.

(EXCERPT FROM A BRIEF HISTORY OF RED SPRINGS BY MRS GEORGE BULLOCK)

06/06/2026

05/25/2026

05/19/2026

We are open today from 2-4 and still have Tshirts available for $20

05/04/2026

UPDATE:

Our air conditioner has been replaced and we are currently waiting for the repair on the front doors to be made. We are hoping to open the third Sunday and Tuesday of this month but I will have to let you know. Thank you for your continued interest and support for the red spring historical Museum!