Robert W.  Surridge, D. Ed., has been selected to serve on the Advisory Board of the Federation of North Carolina Historical Societies. Surridge has been the President of the Southport Historical Society (SHS) since August 2019.

During much of the past two years, the Society’s two museum spaces:  Fort Johnston Museum and Visitor Center, and the Old Brunswick County Jail were closed to the public due to Covid-19. 

Under Surridge’s leadership, the Society pivoted to online educational programs. Fifty community volunteers have presented 80 full-length 1-hour educational programs and short historical videos. 

Also due to Covid-19, SHS has also been unable to hold its largest fundraiser, the Christmas Home Tour, for the past two years. Surridge compensated by increasing the focus on Commemorative Brick Sales, grants, and individual donations.

The result is that during Surridge’s term the society has grown from 240 to nearly 400 members and the organization is well-positioned for the future. It’s certain that Dr. Surridge will be a valuable asset to the statewide Federation’s Advisory Board as well.