This Augusta hotel was picked clean of used furnishings after announcing a remodel

When an Augusta hotel asked the public to “come and get it,” the managers got more than they bargained for.

The Sheraton Augusta at 1069 Stevens Creek Rd. recently announced a remodeling that rendered much of the hotel’s guest furnishings and fixtures obsolete. Two floors’ worth of the used interior items were placed outside the hotel Thursday with an open invitation to visitors to carry away what they wanted.

And boy, did things get carried away.

“It was a nightmare yesterday, actually,” said a Sheraton manager Friday morning, identifying himself only as Jean.

He has "already lost count” Friday answering calls telling people that the used furnishings are no longer available.

Word spread fast online Thursday among Augustans and local charities, and bargain-hunters swarmed. People making off with tables and chairs soon started grabbing items that weren’t meant to be removed, such as mattresses and box springs.

“We have the situation under control now, so we’re not doing that,” Jean said.

This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Bargain hunters descend on Augusta hotel in chaotic furniture giveaway