BURLINGTON-- It was Lawrence County's first jail, and it is now the county's Bicentennial year project. On Monday, it gets an official sign that says so.

State and local leaders will be on hand Monday for a sign dedication at the old Lawrence County Jail at Burlington.

Work is now underway to renovate the aging stone structure and turn it into a museum that will showcase the county's Civil War-era history.

"This project is a way to preserve our heritage here in Lawrence County and to recognize the efforts of the people who worked on the Underground Railroad," said Virginia Bryant, secretary/treasurer of the jail restoration committee.

The committee has received grant money to help buy the old jail and pay for the cost of renovating the building. The sign dedication is at 1:30 p.m. and is open to the public.

"This dedication will give people an opportunity to see what we're starting with, so that when it's finished they will truly appreciate it when the jail is renovated," committee chairman Dave Milem said. "I think this will be something to be proud of."