Construction Zone 

The Museum of Scott County is undergoing a transformation. As we hustle to bring you an exciting museum experience, certain areas are still under construction. To ensure the safety of our visitors, we kindly ask you to schedule an appointment before coming in to explore. This way, we can guarantee a secure and enjoyable visit for everyone.

 **How to Schedule Your Visit:**

Call us at 423-701-0168 or email chad.patton@scottcounty.net to book your appointment.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work hard to create an unforgettable museum experience. Your scheduled visits allow us to manage foot traffic and give you a unique sneak peek into the museum's evolution.

It's One of a Kind ......

 

Welcome to the best kept secret on the Cumberland Plateau—the Museum of Scott County, a two-acre historical phenomenon that was recently designated by the Department of Tourism as one of the ten most child-friendly destinations in Tennessee. 

Located approximately 60 miles northwest of Knoxville, the museum complex of more than a dozen log and stone structures sits on the campus of Scott County High School in Huntsville, where it serves as a hub of community and tourism activities throughout the year, including the annual Heritage Festival that attracts thousands of visitors to the area on the last Saturday of September each year. Museum exhibits throughout the complex trace the history of Scott County from prehistoric to modern times and reflect the joys and the hardships of early Appalachian life. Complete with dozens of farm livestock, thousands of historical artifacts, an interactive learning lab for children, and the largest collection of memorabilia in the United States from the battleship, the USS Tennessee, the Museum of Scott County has something for everyone. 

“The best of all! History and hands-on experience for all ages.”

The uniqueness of the museum lies in the fact that the entire complex is a one-of-a-kind project built, operated, and maintained by the students of Scott County High School, under the auspices of facilitating faculty. Since its grand opening in May 2003, the museum has grown from one log structure to a living historical village that has been the recipient of numerous accolades and awards, including the Tennessee School Board Award for Excellence, the Youth History Award of Distinction, as well as being a featured segment of the Heartland Series, an Emmy award-winning television documentary on life in Appalachia. Visitors have included the prime minister of Japan and the governor of Tennessee, plus thousands of others. 

We invite you to experience the Museum of Scott County. It is open to visitors year-round and admission is always free!

HISTORY MUSEUM

The History Museum traces the history of Scott County from prehistoric to modern times. Several classes within the Scott High curricula are responsible for the exhibits within this museum.

U.S.S TENNESSEE

The U.S.S. Battleship Memorial Museum contains the largest collection of U.S.S. Tennessee memorabilia in the world. The ship was one of the most combated battleships in history. 

LEARNING LODGE

The Learning Lodge is an interactive children's museum incorporating STEM curriculum (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) into a fun learning environment. This two-story, 5,000-square feet log structure provides students the opportunity to play  in realistic settings.

PIONEER VILLAGE

The Frontier Village of the museum complex consists of several buildings that have been relocated from various places in or near Scott County. 

BAKER BUILDING

The Baker Building traces the illustrious career of native born Senator Howard H. Baker, Jr. Recreated as an exact replica of his grandfather’s law office from 1907, it follows the senator’s role in the shaping of world politics, as well as his passion for photography. 

SWAIN EDUCATION

Adjacent to the Learning Lodge is the Swain Education Building. It is a log school building named in honor of Bill Swain, an ardent supporter of The Museum of Scott County and education in general.