The Historical Halifax Restoration Association was established in 1954. Local residents and history enthusiasts, Nannie and Emily Gary, had become involved in trying to save and restore the town's quickly vanishing historic buildings. They were able to persuade well-known North Carolina agricultural broadcaster Ray Wilkinson to become involved in the project.  Ray listened to their stories and took immediate interest. Over the next 50 years, Ray served as Chairman of the Association, overseeing many important restoration projects and presiding over annual Halifax Day events, ceremonies, and annual meetings. Property acquired by the Association was deeded to the State of North Carolina to begin the formation of Historic Halifax State Historic Site in 1965. The Historical Halifax Restoration Association continues to actively preserve, restore and promote Historic Halifax. Among recent projects, the Association relocated and restored the Bradford Denton house, including a functional kitchen and blacksmith shop.