southwest virginia museum

shashab33

This place is a whopper, with collections of items from this region that are captivatingly interesting, and cleverly curated to weave a tapestry of stories related to its historical past and gentle beauty. Ornate is the word i was searching for and it is apt in describing this four storey museum constructed of sandstone and limestone, its interiors showcasing native red oak woodwork, a grand staircase and marble fireplaces. First floor exhibits feature the early development of coal boomtowns, like Big Stone Gap and the coming of the railroads. scoot up to the second floor where galleries flesh out the citizens of the region. its all here, mail-order catalogues, photographs,victrolas, clothing and interestingly, sporting equipment. Up to the third floor for early American Indian and settlers' sagas, with pioneer life depicted in tools, spinning wheels, weaving loom and even a home-made whisky still. Overall, a thoroughly absorbing experience worthy of 4 hours minimum

TerraMac

This is a self guided tour. Informative for local and surrounding area history. Many activities and special events are held throughout the year.

GLM2468

The woodwork alone in this former mansion is worth the trip. 3/4-inch wooden floor planks, a unique stairway to the 2nd floor and over a dozen different door frame corner blocks are really beautiful. The coal-mine country exhibits are spread throughout the house's many rooms, and give a good feel for yesteryear in SW Virginia.

Zzba

The exhibits are well done with just enough variety to be your interest. They have a research room with a massive amount of photographs. We were doing some family history and found many useful pictures.

bbsns

We enjoyed the museum's exhibits. The only thing I seen that should be addressed is the interior walls and ceilings of the museum. There is a need for some major repairs were the walls are cracked and need to be painted. Some outdoor windows need to be repaired also.

Angierobrts

The building itself is beautiful. The trees were a treat! It might have been helpful if the desk staff knew more of the history of the house and the owners through the years.

222KevinB

This museum has a little bit of everything from many different years that are associated with the Big Stone Gap region. It walks you through time from when the area began to boom till present day. Recommend to any person interested in true history.

1beach-nut

The Southwest Virginia Museum in Big Stone Gap, VA is located in a mansion built in the 1180's. It tells the story of the Big Stone Gap's "boom and bust" during the late 1870's as well as the story of Big Stone Gap coal and railroad development. During a visit to the museum, one will see and hear the story of the area from the pre-history era (native American), the 1700's, the 1800's and the 1900's. You will learn about the Wilderness Road, Daniel Boone and the flow of immigrants into the area. Many visuals, tools, and interactive displays in the museum. The Southwest Virginia Museum is also a Virginia Historical State Park. A must visit when in the area to understand the "story of the settlers" into the valley of Virginia .

colliermj

My family came from this area many years ago and it was interesting to see the displays of regional interest here. There was quite a lot about the coal mining industry, but there were also local crafts and a quilt show was being held when I visited. There was a nice collection of old tools and household devices used in the late 1800's and early 1900's. This museum was difficult for me to visit because it has no elevator and has many stairs and the only bathroom is in the basement. However, the staff were very helpful with local information and there was a very nice gift store on site.

MsElchado

My family and I had a wonderful time looking at all the decorated Christmas trees and choosing our favorite. The museum is beautiful and the woodwork is fantastic.

Debbie_C_ombuddy

If you visit Big Stone Gap you need to stop by the Southwest Virginia Museum in Big Stone. The exhibits relate the history of the area and the town.

BessH469

Every time I visit I learn something new about the area I grew up in. Great place to visit. Built in the late 1800's and still has the original wood floors and trim. Beautiful place.

RKBOhio

Typical local museum (which I visit whenever I find one) but the mansion it is housed in is a beauty, the woodwork alone is worth the visit.