Settler's Museum of Southwest Virginia
Take a leisurely stroll into history at the Settler's Museum of Southwest Virginia. Since 1987, this non-profit museum has operated solely on donor support! Located on U.S. Forest Service land, the Museum tells the story of the early mountain settlers of the southwestern corner of Virginia and the development of that culture. See first-hand demonstrations of a day in the life of this region's Scots-Irish and German immigrants and trace some of America's roots back to these original explorers and pioneers.
This story unfolds as you move through the four interpretive areas. You are greeted in the Visitor's Center where the immigration story is told through as series of displays. In the 1894 Lindamood Schoolhouse, you'll see a prime example of the mountain culture's self-sufficiency in creating its own schools generations before the state claimed this responsibility. The 1890 farmhouse is equipped with nine preserved out buildings. Interpreters and audio tapes are available during tours. Photographers and groups are welcome. Visitors from all over the world continue to be intrigued enough to venture off of Smyth County's major Interstate 81 to explore the back country road leading to the museum. It is a journey back in time of more than 100 years and one worth taking. Check out the web site for events and celebrations like Heritage Day at www.settlersmuseum.com