Preserving Plasterco's Past: The R. B. Henderson Plasterco Museum
In the historic community of Plasterco, Virginia, just outside Saltville, Austin Stanley is restoring a former general store to preserve the stories and heritage of this once-thriving industrial community. According to earlier historical research, the store was built around 1910 by the Webb Family and then became part of the Porterfield Farm. The store was then operated by Thomas Porterfield and his two sons; Oscar and Robert “Bob” (founder of the Barter Theater). TheHenderson family began renting the store building around 1935 and ultimately purchased the property from Oscar in 1948
Austin's third great-uncle, the Rev. Ryburn Bolden "Rybe" Henderson, operated the general store during the postwar years through the 1970s while also serving as pastor of Plasterco United Methodist Church. His son Brack continued operating the store until 1978. For generations, the building was part of everyday life in Plasterco, providing necessities and serving as a gathering place for the community.
Today, Austin is working to transform the nearly 4,000-square-foot building, one of only two surviving business structures from Plasterco's industrial past, into the R. B. Henderson Plasterco Museum. His vision includes preserving original store features, displaying historical photographs and family memorabilia, and creating exhibits that celebrate Plasterco's people, industries, and Appalachian heritage.
Historical source: Carolyn R. Wilson, “Honoring Ancestors,” Bristol Herald Courier, September 1, 2026. Construction and purchase dates are pending confirmation.
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Supporting the Museum
The museum's Christmas Fundraiser features commemorative ornaments celebrating Plasterco's historic General Store and church. Proceeds after production and related expenses will help support the restoration and preservation of this important piece of local history
Plasterco General Store Christmas Ornament
(Front & Back)
$12.00 each plus shipping
Built in 1910, the Plasterco General Store was part of a community that grew around the local gypsum industry. Plasterco's industrial roots reach back to the 1800s, with United States Gypsum Company establishing operations there in the early 1900s.
The general store recalls a time when small-town stores provided everyday necessities and served as gathering places for neighbors and families. This commemorative ornament celebrates Plasterco's heritage and supports the R. B. Henderson Plasterco Museum's efforts to preserve the community's history for future generations.
Plasterco Union Church Christmas Ornament
(Front & Back)
$12.00 each plus shipping
The historic church in Plasterco, Virginia, represents generations of faith, fellowship, and community traditions. For families who lived and worked in this small Appalachian town, the church was more than a place of worship. It was a gathering place where neighbors came together, friendships grew, and memories were made.
Featuring the church's exterior and interior, this beautiful double-sided Christmas ornament honors an important part of Plasterco's heritage. Created for the R. B. Henderson Plasterco Museum Christmas Fundraiser, it celebrates the community's history while helping preserve its stories for future generations.
Follow Along & Support the Museum
We invite you to follow the R. B. Henderson Plasterco Museum on social media to stay updated on Austin's restoration progress, discover historical photographs, and learn more about Plasterco's rich heritage.
If you would like to support the museum beyond purchasing a fundraiser ornament, Austin has also established a GoFundMe campaign where monetary donations can be made directly toward the restoration and preservation of this historic building. Every contribution, large or small, helps bring his vision of preserving Plasterco's history for future generations closer to reality.
The R. B. Henderson Plasterco Museum was featured on Appalachian Memory Keepers, highlighting Austin Stanley's efforts to restore the historic general store and preserve Plasterco's heritage. Watch the video below to learn more about the museum, its history, and Austin's vision for keeping the community's stories alive for future generations.
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