CAROLINA BEACH, N.C. (WECT) – Local groups are partnering to hold a fundraiser to restore the hermit mural “School of Common Sense” at The Last Resort from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 13.

You will be able to meet the artist, and there will be $10 BBQ plates, a silent auction, music, drink specials and more.

The event is being held by The Island Men in partnership with the Carolina Beach Bar Club and Carolina Beach Mural Project.

The mural depicts Robert E. Harrill, known as The Hermit of Fort Fisher, who was born in 1893. He arrived on Pleasure Island in 1955 after hitchhiking over 250 miles and took up a home in a World War II bunker in the salt marsh at Fort Fisher State Park Recreation Area. He lived their until his death in 1972.

The mural was made in 2015 by local artist Ron Fogle, but the wall and mural itself have taken a toll from the weather and need refurbishing.

Any funds not used to restore the mural will be donated to the Carolina Beach Mural Project for its Centennial Public Art projects.

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