“The great part of the heritage museum is the grassroots effort and the fact that it belongs to Transylvania County families,” said Suddeth. “The Community Advisors are our strength and will keep us in touch with what the public wants to see and learn.” Coming from 30 different communities in Transylvania County, each member of the advisors committee will help to bring ideas to the museum and publicize its goals.

The Heritage Coalition will soon hold a museum-naming contest; watch for the details in the Transylvania Times. The current goals of the Heritage Coalition include a membership campaign, several fundraising events and development of many new and exciting exhibits based on Transylvania heritage. The projected opening of the new museum/center is targeted for May 2008.