Attractions » One of a Kind
Harry W. Meador Coal Museum - More Info
East Third Street and Shawnee Avenue
Big Stone Gap, VA 24219
Phone: (276) 523-9209
Museum features exhibits and objects collected by the late Harry Meador Jr., an executive with a local coal company. Museum property once served as the study of John Fox Jr, author of "Trail of the Lonesome Pine".The founder of the museum, Harry W. Meador, was an advocate of the coal mining industry. During his career, he rose from a union laborer to the Vice President of Coal Development for a local coal company.Once part of the John Fox, Jr. estate, the house was a two room building that served as a library and study. Later a wing was added and the building served as a community center for dances and other activities. Various displays exist in the museum, including a collection of photographs, mining equipment and tools, office equipment, coal company items, and a small dentist office from the early 1900's.
Carter Family Fold - More Info
Carter Family Fold
Hiltons, VA 24258
Website: www.carterfamilyfold.org
Phone: (276) 386-9480
The Carter fold is a rustic, 1,000 seat music shed offering traditional music every Saturday night. Museum opens an hour prior to the show. The Carter Family was discovered in 1927 by Victor Recording Studio in Bristol and recorded 300 songs between 1927 and 1942. Playing traditional Appalachian music, the family has often been credited as forerunners of modern-day country music.
Today, A.P. Carter's old general store acts as a museum. Recent additions include the newly moved and reconstructed original A.P. Carter Homeplace.
A.P. Carter Museum - More Info
Carter Family Fold
Hiltons, VA 24258
Website: www.carterfamilyfold.org
Phone: (276) 386-9480
A.P. Carter's old general store has been converted into a museum that houses the collections of A.P. Carter, his wife Sara and her cousin Maybelle, who as The Carter Family, were the pioneers of what was to become country music. Artifacts include photos, books, and musical instruments, show clothes, 78rpm recordings and many other memorabilia, such as items donated by family members June and Johnny Cash.
Located next door to the museum, is the old log cabin where A.P. was born. Recently restored, it showcases life in southwest Virginia during the early 1900's and includes many family antiques and collectibles.
