The process has begun to restore one of Guinea’s most notable community landmarks. Members of the Guinea Heritage Association are working to transform the C.B. Rowe and Son General Store into a museum, in accordance with the wishes of former owner, the late Clarence Benjamin Rowe.

“Buck” Rowe was born in 1920, the same year that his father opened the location as C.B. Rowe and Son, according to GHA historical documents. Rowe was known locally as “the unofficial Mayor of Guinea” during his time running the business that dates to the days of Reconstruction. The Bena location served as a post office from 1947-1977, as well as a store and community hub throughout Rowe’s tenure as owner.

According to GHA secretary Sharon Zuber, “the long-range plan is to open the store as a public museum,” as well as to install a bathroom, air conditioning, plumbing and a handicapped access ramp.

The inside of the store has remained largely untouched since...