On March 10th WNCT in Greenville, NC, ran a piece on whether or not the proposed indoor museum for the remains of the Confederate ironclad CSS Neuse is worth it considering the state's $2 billion budgetary shortfall. At least $9.3 million is slated for the project, which is very necessary due to the ravages of the weather on the hull remains which have taken place ever since the ship was raised from the Neuse River back in 1963.
Budget watchdogs call it a waste of money as being just a tourist thing.
Supporters of the museum say it will help revitalize downtown Kinston, referring to the Civil War Naval Museum in Columbus, Georgia, where the remains of the only other Confederate gunboat are located. Last year, it had 25,000 paid admissions and brought in $400,000 from the admissions and gift shop.
Well, being somewhat of a Civil War and history enthusiast, I tend to side with these folks, but can see the monetary situation.
I Say, Save That Old Boat. --B-Runner
The Battle of Fort Fisher, N.C.
