MAJOR EXPANSION CELEBRATED AT RANDOLPH COUNTY HERITAGE MUSEUM

MAJOR EXPANSION CELEBRATED AT RANDOLPH COUNTY HERITAGE MUSEUM

WITH OPENING OF COX AGRICULTURAL GALLERY

The Randolph County Heritage Museum celebrated a major milestone on Saturday, March 7 with a reception and ribbon cutting marking the opening of the new Ruth Ann Cox Agricultural and Rural Life Gallery. Made possible through a generous gift from Don Cox and the Cox family, the project more than doubled the museum’s exhibit space and represents one of the most significant expansions since the museum was founded.

Approximately 130 visitors attended the event, held from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the museum on the historic Pocahontas court square. Guests gathered to tour the newly completed gallery space, enjoy refreshments, and celebrate the continued growth of the museum and its mission to preserve the history of Randolph County.

A ribbon cutting was held at approximately 4:30 p.m. to officially open the gallery to the public.

During the program, museum board member Scott Trammel spoke about the legacy of Don and Ruth Ann Cox and the lasting impact the Cox family has had on Randolph County and the surrounding region. Trammel reflected on the family’s deep connection to agriculture and their commitment to supporting community institutions such as the museum.

Visitors explored exhibits highlighting the agricultural history that shaped the region, including displays on the importance of cotton farming in Randolph County and the later development of rice production and modern agricultural practices. Through artifacts, photographs, and interpretive displays, the new gallery connects the experiences of local families to broader developments in Arkansas and American history.

Museum President Dr. Rodney Harris said the strong turnout demonstrated the community’s enthusiasm for the museum’s continued growth.

“We were thrilled to see the museum full of people celebrating this important moment in our history,” Harris said. “The Ruth Ann Cox Agricultural and Rural Life Gallery allows us to tell the story of Randolph County in a deeper and more meaningful way, connecting the experiences of local families to the broader history of Arkansas and the nation. We are deeply grateful to Don Cox and the Cox family for their generosity and commitment to preserving our shared heritage for generations to come.”Founded in 2006, the Randolph County Heritage Museum is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Randolph County and the surrounding region. The museum was created by a group of dedicated citizens as a lasting gift to the community, and it continues to rely on the support of volunteers, donors, and community partners to carry that mission forward.

The Randolph County Heritage Museum is located at 106 East Everett Street on the historic court square in Pocahontas.