For his leadership and vision in the preservation of the
former Sanford High School, which now serves as home to the Lee County Arts and
Community Center.
Each year, Preservation North Carolina presents the Gertrude S. Carraway Awards of Merit to individuals and organizations that have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to promoting historic preservation. The awards have been given since 1975 and are named for the late Dr. Gertrude Carraway of New Bern, a leader in the successful effort to reconstruct the state's colonial capitol, Tryon Palace, in New Bern.
For half a century, a statuesque building in downtown Sanford served local students as the town’s high school. But for many members of the community, it was seen as much more than an education destination. Built in 1925, the school was a primary community-gathering place — not just for students, but also for parents, friends and neighbors.
In 1975, the school bell at Sanford High rang for the last time, and many feared the aging structure would be a target for the wrecking ball. However, the old school still had life in it, a fact that several far-sighted local residents recognized. A community effort led by Tommy C. Mann Sr. managed not only to save this important community artifact, but also added to its value by reusing it as the home of the Lee County Arts and Community Center.
The restoration process was neither easy nor quick. Much of it was funded through charitable contributions — with individuals and organizations giving both money and time. Volunteers removed old caulking, painted, refinished floors, cleaned walls and windows, replaced broken glass and much more. Throughout the process, Tommy Mann served as a leader and a cheerleader for the project, putting in long hours each day to ensure that all work was being done correctly.
Tommy Mann served as city alderman during the 1950s and 1960s, and he was mayor of Sanford from 1963 to 1965. He also has been president of the Sanford Jaycees and of the Sanford Chamber of Commerce, to name only a few of his many civic contributions.
Still, many in Lee County and across the state see Mann first and foremost a preservationist, whose vision, hard work and dedication led to the restoration and reuse of the former Sanford High School. It stands now not only as an icon of the community but also as a monument to the perseverance of Tommy Mann.
Preservation North Carolina is pleased to present the 2009 Gertrude S. Carraway Award of Merit to Tommy C. Mann Sr., of Sanford, the ultimate local preservation hero.
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