LOCATION
2819 Andersonville Hwy.
Clinton, TN 37716
FEATURED ARTIFACT:
Woolen Lap Robe and Coal Foot Warmer
While well-known lyrics state how fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh, the occupants’ merrymaking might have been dampened without the proper means of staying warm. A lap robe was used to cover the legs of the riders in the winter months (these were even used in early automobiles). Additionally, a foot warmer or carriage heater was also important for keeping the rider comfortable. Hot coals were placed in the metal casing, and the adjustable ventilator was used to regulate the amount of heat.
The lap robe and foot warmer adorn the buggy of Dr. Robert Lee (Ira) Carter (1876-1955) of Carter Valley near Church Hill, Tennessee. Carter and his wife, Eliza, are pictured in the buggy in 1912.
Roam our 65 picturesque acres and experience a recreated Appalachian community complete with: 35 log cabins, barns, farm animals, churches, schools, gardens.
Over 250,000 artifacts in 3 buildings, with vast collections of folk art, musical instruments, baskets, quilts, Native American artifacts, and more.
The Museum also contains a restaurant specializing in Southern Appalachian country cooking, a Gift Shop featuring locally made products, and a Banquet Hall for events!
Founded by John Rice Irwin in 1969, the Museum is now a non-profit organization, and a Smithsonian Affiliate museum. Visit our “About Us” tab, or see below for more info.
