History:- 

The Youth Museum’s main gallery is made up of four railroad boxcars. The central exhibit area features an average of three different exhibits yearly.  Designed to entertain as well as educate, the exhibits range from “T-Rex”, “Bats”, and “Artist in the Studio” to “Page after Page”, an award winning children’s authors presentation. 

Group tours include a visit to the Museum’s Planetarium. Seasonal programs highlight constellations, visible planets and special celestial events. 

Behind the Museum’s main building, stands the Mountain Homestead. Developed to enrich history studies, the Museum has recreated a typical settlement on the Appalachian frontier. 

Trained interpreters explain the importance of each reconstructed historical building. Visit the weaver’s shed – complete with loom and spinning wheels. In the two-story log house, groups listen as the guide explains the many interesting artifacts and antiques made and used by the rugged individuals that settled this region. Step back in time as you enter the one room school and experience “readin’, writin’, and rithmetic’” as it used to be. The barn, blacksmith shop, and general store all help to complete this rich historical journey of the late 19th century. 

In 2000, the Youth Museum was awarded the prestigious Institute of Museum and Library Services, National Museum Service Award. The award was presented in Washington D.C. by President Clinton and Mrs. Clinton and was given in recognition of the Museum’s vital community outreach programs.