Decades of work compiled by a late Richmond County historian has been committed to the State Archives in Raleigh for future generations to consult while conducting research or tracing back their family trees.

Joe McLaurin, who often joked he wasn’t born in Richmond County but moved here when he was six-weeks-old, passed away in 2003, bequeathing to the city and county his beloved reams of historical documents that he compiled concerning their histories.

The Joe M. McLaurin History Collection, which includes his works, genealogical and family correspondence, photographs, photographic negatives, original paper writings and manuscript volumes, will now be housed in the State Archive for any who are interested in the history of Richmond County.

This was his wish, expressed during his lifetime, but delivery was delayed for some time due to space and budget constraints of the state. An archivist is now working to incorporate the materials into the state’s records.

“I am very happy that the Collection has now been delivered to the State Archives where it can be used and enjoyed by everyone,” said Joe’s widow Cooper McLaurin. “This was a life-long love of Joe’s, and I know he would be pleased.”

Among McLaurin’s published works was “Richmond County Record: Journal of The Society of Richmond County Descendants,” which he edited.

He was also a columnist for the Daily Journal.

Included in its 665 pages were lists of apprentice bonds, brides, cemetery plots, deaths, marriage and others and a history of Richmond County.

Joe’s son, Gene McLaurin, who is the mayor of Rockingham, said this is the way his dad would have wanted it.

“He loved Richmond County history, and had accumulated many files and met with many families over the years - not only about their family histories but also about special events and things like that,” McLaurin said.

He said his dad founded Solene Lubricants, currently Total Lubricants, but devoted his time entirely to studying local history after selling the business in 1986.

“His plans were always to have (the collection) in a safe place in Raleigh where citizens who have roots in Richmond County can have access to it,” McLaurin said. “And also where it can be properly maintained and secured. My family’s very proud of all the effort he put forth on this work, and we are still missing him.”

Staff Writer Philip D. Brown can be reached at (910) 997-3111 ext. 32, or by e-mail at pbrown@yourdailyjournal.com.