Conway’s Peanut Warehouse could reopen by March

A familiar face plans to restore one of Conway’s beloved landmarks.

Scott Thompson, owner of Thompson Farm and Nursery, has agreed to lease the Peanut Warehouse, a 115-year-old former storage facility and tobacco barn that most recently served as a popular spot for wedding receptions and events. It closed last year because of concerns about the building’s structural integrity.

“Trying to do everything I can to preserve it,” said Thompson, who plans to reopen the Peanut Warehouse in March.

Thompson will replace some support piers, update the lighting and extend the front porch across the side of the building facing the river. He also wants to add some sliding doors near the new porch that match the others on the warehouse.

“I love the rustic look of the building,” he said. “I love it as is. I don’t want to change anything a whole lot.”

Thompson intends to resume some of Peanut Warehouse’s previous activities, such as holding weddings and receptions, as well as host corporate events, bluegrass festivals and political stump meetings. He runs a similar venue, Bucksville Hall, at his family’s farm located off U.S. 701 south of Conway.

Thompson said he received a call from the Burroughs Co., the warehouse’s owner, about 60 days ago, asking if he would be interested in rehabbing the building and leasing the property, which is nestled in the heart of downtown Conway near the Main Street bridge.

“They just thought that I might be the guy based on my background,” he said, noting that his family spent decades in the amusement business. “They’re looking to improve that whole area.”

The warehouse isn’t the only Burroughs property receiving a facelift. Darren Smith, owner of the Rivertown Bistro, is putting the finishing touches on Bonfire, a southern smokehouse opening in the former Sidewheeler building.

Smith initially hoped to be open by the end of the year, but that was before October’s historic flood. He could not be reached for comment Monday.

Because of financial constraints, Burroughs Co. officials have said they plan to either sell or sign long-term leases for the firm’s riverfront properties. Some leaders hope to build a small hotel near the Main Street bridge.

Thompson has a 25-year lease on the Peanut Warehouse.

Regardless of what other businesses open along the riverfront, he said reviving the historic warehouse is in some ways a personal mission. His 81-year-old father worked there as a boy, toiling in tobacco.

“I like old Conway,” Thompson said. “I like the old buildings. I hate to see them deteriorate.”

This story was originally published December 21, 2015 at 12:50 PM with the headline "Conway’s Peanut Warehouse could reopen by March."