News Room

Rep. Brian White receives Workhorse Award for his role in preserving Pendleton landmark

State representative Brian White was recently honored by the Pendleton District Historical, Recreational and Tourism Commission with the Workhorse Award for his outstanding support of the restoration of Hunter's Store, a 159 year-old building in the Old Pendleton historic district. White received the award along with Rep. Dan Cooper, a fellow member of the Anderson County delegation and Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee.

Hunter's Store, which has served as the headquarters for the Commission since 1968, was once the center of commerce for the Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens County region when it was built in 1850. Building renovations, which have literally kept the landmark standing, include roof and foundation repair and bringing the building's systems up to current codes.

At a celebration marking the end of renovation phase one, Commission Chairman Mary Mills commended White and Cooper saying, "Two people played a very significant role in helping to save Hunter's Store for future generations to enjoy. We owe them a special debt of gratitude:  Chairman Dan Cooper and Rep. Brian White."

She continued, "Three years ago, Chairman Cooper and Rep. White listened as we described our need to restore Hunter's Store. They not only listened, they took action. Representative White came to the building, met with Executive Director Vicki Fletcher, and saw first-hand the condition of the building. He submitted our request for a grant through the state's Competitive Grant Program, and Chairman Cooper helped shepherd it through the process. The fact that we are in Hunter's Store tonight is a testament to the work these gentlemen have done for our region. Without them, the beginning of this project would still be just a dream."