OUR PURPOSE

We're working to restore the Harrold Building—a 1911 landmark in Millington, TN’s historic district—and reimagine it as a mixed-use community space.

This effort began in 2024 when Millington Central Middle High School students, including then-seniors Montanah Caldwell, Mackenzie Murphy, Cortia Hibbler, and Anthony Fry, advocated for saving the building during a speech class project.

Their vision sparked city action. The Millington Board of Mayor and Aldermen purchased the building that year for $134,778 and approved over $1 million in funding for its preservation and development.

OUR TEAM SO FAR

We're committed to keeping this project as locally driven as possible. To date, nearly 100% of funds spent to date have gone to Millington and Memphis-based small businesses.*

OUR GOAL IS SIMPLE.

We want to preserve what matters, invest in our people, and let residents shape the future.

*SNK Construction, Building Systems Group, J+L Creative, DesignShop

OUR HISTORY

E.A. Harrold opened his first sundries store at the corner of C Street in 1898. The current brick structure was built in 1911, making it Millington's oldest surviving commercial building.

After Harrold's death in 1950, famed Millington entrepreneur Babe Howard purchased the building. Over the years, it housed a general store, shoe factory, fabric store, slaughterhouse, cable company, and eventually Old Timers Restaurant. For decades, Old Timers was a beloved gathering place for generations of families.

The building has stood alongside longtime neighbors like Boatwright Pharmacy (operating since 1957), Frenchie's Barbershop, and Morrie's Tavern—anchoring a thriving historic district.

By 2024, years of neglect had taken their toll. Portions of the roof and second floor had collapsed, threatening permanent loss. After hearing from young residents about the building's importance, the City stepped in to stabilize the historic brick exterior and begin preservation work.

Today, a new steel frame will be installed within the preserved brick walls, creating a flexible space while honoring the building's architectural character. Completion is expected in early 2026, with pilot programming and community events planned throughout the year. 

By restoring the Harrold Building for new uses, Millington shows its character. We honor our history and invest in our future.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • The Harrold Building was built in 1911 and is now the focus of a $1M+ historic preservation campaign.

  • The Harrold Building is located at 7922 C Street in Millington, Tennessee’s historic district, near Easley Avenue and the railroad tracks. Millington is Shelby County's fastest growing city, approximately 15 minutes north of Memphis, and less than a mile from Naval Support Activity Mid-South, one of the county’s largest employers.

  • Save the Harrold is a community campaign to preserve and reimagine the Harrold Building in Millington's historic district as part of a broader community placemaking and economic development strategy.

  • Stabilization and initial demolition are underway and will be completed in early 2026, with pilot programming and community events planned for later that year. A full reopening timeline will be announced as the vision develops.

  • The building is currently undergoing stabilization and is not open for public tours. Follow SaveTheHarrold.com for updates on public events and community programming planned for 2026.

  • Not yet. This campaign starts with saving the building and listening to the community. Ideas shared through the website will shape what comes next, with creative pilot programs launching later this year to build energy and bring the Harrold Building back to life.

  • Prior to the City purchasing the property, the Harrold Building had fallen into disrepair and faced an uncertain future. After hearing from young residents about its importance, the City explored options and determined the building could be saved. The purchase created an opportunity to preserve local history while opening the door to new economic and community uses.

  • The City acquired the Harrold Building in a county tax sale. All actions were taken in open meetings and documented through adopted resolutions. These items can be viewed on the City website.

    More info here: https://shorturl.at/d5sPp

  • Visit SaveTheHarrold.com, share memories, submit ideas, and attend future events. Community input will directly shape the building's future uses.

  • Yes. The City is prioritizing local partners, businesses, and Millington natives in all phases of the project to support the local economy.

  • Yes. The City is actively seeking business partners interested in co-locating in the Harrold Building or supporting its transformation. The building offers a unique opportunity to establish a presence in a restored historic landmark at the heart of Millington's growing community.

     

    Partners who value authentic spaces, local investment, and long-term community impact are encouraged to contact City Manager Frankie Dakin at f.dakin@millingtontn.gov or 901.493.7839 to explore opportunities.

  • Visit SaveTheHarrold.com or follow the campaign on social media:

    Facebook: facebook.com/SaveTheHarrold

    Instagram: @SaveTheHarrold

    Sign up for email updates on the website to receive project news and event announcements.