Cox Family Donation Will Fund Major Expansion at Randolph County Heritage Museum

POCAHONTAS, Ark. — The Randolph County Heritage Museum is preparing for a major expansion following the largest donation in the organization’s history, given by the Cox family in memory of Ruth Ann Cox.

The gift, made by longtime museum supporter Don Cox and his family, will fund the museum’s long-planned expansion into the second floor, address needed repairs, and establish a sustainability fund to ensure the museum’s long-term future, a press release announced this week.

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The donation honors Ruth Ann Cox, who died Nov. 7, 2023. She was remembered for her kindness, devotion to family, and dedication to her community. She and Don Cox were married for 66 years.

Museum officials said the second-floor renovation will feature the Ruth Ann Cox Agriculture and Rural Life Gallery, which will showcase Randolph County’s agricultural legacy and rural culture. Planned exhibits include displays on the rural kitchen, cotton cultivation, local agriculture, the Shemwell Country Store, Joe Peters Store, and the B.F. Bigger exhibit. The space will also include a military exhibit honoring county residents who have served in the U.S. armed forces.

“Mr. Cox has always supported the mission of the museum, but this gift will be transformative,” said Rodney Harris, president of the Randolph County Heritage Museum.

Construction is expected to begin soon, with the second floor projected to open this fall. The museum will remain open during the renovation.

Founded in 2006, the Randolph County Heritage Museum is a volunteer-run nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the area’s history. The museum maintains artifacts, documents, family records, and church and business archives while connecting local stories to the broader history of the nation.

The museum will mark its 20th anniversary next year. All donations are tax-deductible.