The first signs of digging took place last week at the old Mt. Zion Institute as archeologists from the University of South Carolina examined the soil for remnants from the past.

“We wanted to give them an opportunity to look for artifacts before we disturb the soil,” said Frank Warlick, co-owner of Red Clay Development. The Charlotte-based company purchased the property from the Town of Winnsboro in December.

Once the archeologists are done, a chain-link fence will be placed around the property to keep it secure while renovations are beginning completed on the old school building.

Most, if not all, of the sub-contract work will be completed by local workers trained by Palmetto Training. On Wednesday, the training institute held pre-screening interviews for electricians, brick masons, carpenters and HVAC technicians.

“The development firm will not be hiring these people,” Warlick said. “The only person we will hire will be a licensed general contractor. The general contractor will then hire the sub-contractors.”

The general contractor must have experience in historic restorations, Warlick added.

Eddie Jackson, owner of Palmetto Training, said each program will have 10 students per class, a total of 40 students enrolled at a time. Those selected for the program will receive 500 hours of training as well as be NCCER and OSHA certified.

The first day of classes is scheduled to begin on May 17.

Warlick said once renovated, the old school will be listed on the National Register of Historical Places. The project is expected to be completed within 12 months and cost more than $4 million. It will be funded by grants and federal and state historic tax credits, said Warlick.