Coal Creek Miners Museum — Attraction in Rocky Top

Came across this business while looking for points of interest in Lake City, Tn. Never heard of it before, but my friend and I decided to make it a road trip from Maryville to Lake City. Located in a former bank building, their space is somewhat limited, but there is a wealth of information to be had. I've forgotten the lady's name who led us through the museum (apologies), but she was extremely well versed on the history of the Coal Creek Miners and their plight of convict labor putting them out of work. This is a bit of local history which we don't hear in school growing up, but the stories heard here bring their hardship and despair to life. This was one of the most interesting half-day trips that we've taken in this area of East Tennessee. Thanks to the Museum curator for providing a welcome educational visit and bringing to life those who make our area what it is. On a further note, the Museum is attempting a fund drive to install an elevator which will then enable them to use the second floor of the bank building to expand their memorabilia. I heartily recommend a visit to this small but historically rich community. Make a donation while you're there -- it's one that will make a difference and keep the memory of our...

We were in the Knoxville area for business and I was researching something to do on the way home. I came across the museum as the first choice and most recommended activity for the area. Of course we had to stop. I'm glad we did. If your into history this is a must visit museum. There is a lot of pictures and artifacts from the coal mines and a lot to read about. from how the mines started, to its prim time and all the way up to the disaster, everything's there. There was a very lovey lady named Lisa there and she gave us a tour of everything and explained what everything was and we really enjoyed that. she had such a passion for the history and it showed. she also had really pretty and neat crafts made out of the local coal (she made herself) available to be purchased (all proceeds go right back to the museum). If you have some time to stop in rocky top and see this I would highly recommend it. We ran out of time and could only see the museum but we are planning on stopping to see all the other sights in a few weeks when we go back. They are expanding the museum and I cant wait to watch it grow and see...

This is a small and unique museum with a huge impact. There is no admission fee and it is ran by volunteers on donations. There has been great efforts and care to show the public the life and struggles of the people of this bygone era. The hardships the miners endured and the outline of the various obstacles the community faced can be difficult to understand for some but this museum brings it much closer to heart. From the tragic mining disasters to the exploitations of the miners, their families, and prisoners' during the convict lease wars; the legacy of a tenacious and driven community is on display. If you appreciate history (or a drive in nature) a trip to Milita Hill is well worth the time. This is a hidden gem and a wonderful surprise tucked away in a small town. I think this is wonderful educational trip for students or anyone wishing to broaden their historical understanding. I hope to visit one day to see it has grown to a larger display. If you go, consider a small donation, purchase a hand made coal souvenir, and give a warm Thank You to the wonderful volunteers. Highly...