Most North Brunswick County residents had heard of or visited the Mercer Museum at some point in their lives.  A lifetime collection of thousands of unique items showcasing life in Brunswick County over the last 100 years, the display existed as an outbuilding right on the grounds of the Mercer Estate on Highway 17 in Bolivia.  The Museum opened in 1985 and the relics contained within it were donated by and accumulated from various Brunswick and Duplin county residents over the years. 

On Saturday March 27^th, locals had the opportunity to own a small piece of this history.  The contents of the Museum as well as the Mercer Estate were auctioned off by local auction company, Auction Orange. Some of the items bidders took home included old farm implements, antique advertising signs, folklore, oil paintings, a porcelain casket jewelry box, a pocket knife collection, fountain pen collection, old toys, turpentine still implements, fishing lure collection, and some antique furniture.  

The auction was extremely well attended by the public, and the atmosphere crackled with calls from the two auctioneers on the grounds, each selling items at a rapid clip for over seven hours.  Thousands of pieces crossed the block, and bidders left excited about the treasures they had won.  Many attendees had known the Mercers well, or were kin.  They came seeking memories, and left with satisfied smiles, toting small collections, glassware, pictures, and equipment.  Although the Museum no longer exists, there is no doubt that Brunswick County still owns a piece of the legacy the Mercers left behind.