Courthouse museum honors veterans

November 12, 2025 by Ben Pounds

A small military service museum is now open inside the Anderson County Courthouse in Clinton, giving visitors a chance to view items from past wars, and to honor local veterans.

The display, located in Room 114 near the courthouse waiting area, includes uniforms, gear and other military memorabilia from the Iraq War, Vietnam War and World War II.

The exhibit is open to the public Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., according to Anderson County Veterans Service Officer Scott Nation, who discussed the collection during the Oct. 13 Operations Committee meeting.

“The museum is important, as it keeps alive the spirit and memories of what service members used and went through during their time in service,” Nation said. “As veterans tell their stories to their families, it gives those families a place to see some of the things they’ve only heard about.”

Nation said he created the museum so residents could view the memorabilia without interrupting his office’s regular operations.

In addition to overseeing the museum, Nation helps veterans navigate the Veterans Affairs system, including assistance with paperwork, claims and appeals. His office also works with other local organizations to help veterans with rent, bills and other needs.

Nation reported to the committee that during the first quarter of the fiscal year, his office served more than 459 veterans, widows or dependents. Staff made more than 655 phone calls, participated in 14 training and community events, and made 12 home visits to help residents file for benefits from their homes or nursing facilities.

He said veterans and their dependents received more than $533,000 in benefits.

For the first time in four years, the county also saw an increase in the number of veterans moving into the area, with 104 new arrivals.

The Veterans Services Office is open to all military veterans with honorable discharges.