The National Trust for Historic Preservations Preservation Services fund grant funded A feasibility study undertaken by the town of Onancock in 1995. This study made possible the acquisition and subsequent restoration of the building. 

The restoration of this African-American industrial site was funded through the Commonwealth of Virginia Transportation Enhancement Program. 

Congress, through the Intermodal Surface Transportation Enhancement Act (ISTEA) of 1991 funded this program.

The ISTEA funds local support components were provided by grants from the town of Onacock and a gift of the property by Mr. W Sample
The Eastern Shore of Virginia Historical Society and the Furnace Town Foundation of Snow Hill, Maryland are making ongoing collaborative efforts at interpretation. In the future, Mr. Outlaw’s tools and equipment will be exhibited and it is hoped a Guild of Blacksmiths will form from the local community. 

If you are interested in learning more about the blacksmith trade and wish to become a member of the Samuel D Outlaw Blacksmith Guild, please contact the Eastern Shore of Virginia Historical Society at 787-8012.