The Statue of Liberty is coming to Laurinburg. Not the real one, but a 16-foot replica to be constructed by a local Boy Scout as part of his Eagle Community Service Project.

Scout Thomas Schmidt of Troop 447 plans to place the statue in front of the Clinton V. Willis National Guard Armory on Main Street in Laurinburg as soon as the necessary funds are obtained.

"The response for this project from the community has been tremendous," Schmidt said. "I've raised approximately $2000 of my $3000 goal."

Schmidt has spoken to various community service groups throughout the county to rally support for the project. He said the feedback he has received has been positive.

“It’s a great encouragement when I see such strong American spirit and enthusiasm about supporting our Statue of Liberty project,” said Schmidt. “The real focus is to honor our veterans and troops. I think that every visitor is going to drive off the future Interstate 74 and realize how much the people of Laurinburg support the troops and veterans and honor the sacrifices they have always made in the name of liberty."

Through sales of brick pavers inscribed with a name of one's choice, Schmidt has been able to complete phase one of the project, the purchase of the statue itself. The replica, which reaches about seven and a half feet without its brick and mortar base, is currently on display in the law office of his father, Michael Schmidt, located at 452 South Main St. in Laurinburg. He is currently raising funds for the base and pedestal of the monument by continuing to sell pavers.

“Though the focus is on the veterans, I think this is a good opportunity for people who are interested in donating to add their names to this monument to permanently honor the person or organization of their choice,” Schmidt said. "Your contribution will mean a great deal to our soldiers and will enhance the beauty of our community."

Brigadier General Clinton V. Willis was instrumental in gaining clearance for the 17 year old to proceed with his plans to put a monument on the armory grounds.

"Since the armory is a government facility, not just anything can be placed on the grounds," Willis said. "I intervened on his behalf by going to Raleigh and meeting with the adjutant general, who directed me to the colonel in charge of engineering and facilities. Once I reached the right person, it didn't take long to get the process going."

With phase one of the project completed, phase two will be to pour the concrete base. The final step will be the unveiling and dedication ceremony, which Schmidt hopes will take place by mid-July.

“It’s going to be a beautiful and wonderful day," Schmidt said. "People will be thrilled to see a 16-foot replica of the Statue of Liberty in the middle of our beautiful town.”

Schmidt's father Michael is proud of his son's endeavor.

"It's a very meritorious project," the elder Schmidt said. "Thomas has been interested in a career in the armed forces since about age 6, and I appreciate his wish to honor the men and women who sacrificed so that we might be a free people."

Willis agreed that Schmidt's endeavor would reflect on the fact that America is "a great country."

"The Eagle Scouts work so hard on their projects, and undertaking one of this magnitude will be remembered as a significant moment in his life," Willis said. "This is an excellent project he's undertaken, and one that will demonstrate what a great country we have. I urge everyone in the community to buy a brick and support this young man."

Schmidt is currently taking orders for the brick pavers, which can be inscribed with up to 14 characters per line for three lines. Brochures may be ordered by calling 266-9017 or by visiting his father’s law office. Inscriptions can also be written and sent to Thomas at the same address with a check or money order for $59 per brick.

Schmidt's scoutmaster is Robert Weagraff of Laurinburg.