Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains just got even better! Funding has been approved by the U.S. Department of the Interior for a new archive facility that will hold thousands of records and original artifacts of the Smoky Mountain area. Here is everything you need to know about this new facility in the Smoky Mountains:
What is the Purpose of this New Facility?
The National Park Service Joint Curatorial Collection Facility is a $4.3 million project that will be built across the street from the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center in Townsend. Of the $4.3 million, $2 million is from federal money, the National Park Service, and the rest is funded from private donations. East Tennessee news station, WBIR, has stated that the new facility in the Smoky Mountains will house almost 900,000 historical artifacts and archival records about the park and region. Of those, 450,000 will be archival records and 422,000 are original historical artifacts.
What Will Be Stored in this New Facility?
Some of the Smoky Mountain records and artifacts that visitors can expect to see in this new facility include: land and operating records, original photographs, farm tools and logging equipment, clothing, weapons, oral histories, and more. The facility will even house a select few of Andrew Johnson’s presidential papers. Johnson was the 17th President of the United States and was from Greeneville, Tennessee. The protection of these Smoky Mountain records and artifacts is crucial to the preservation of Appalachian culture.
When Can We Expect to See this New Facility?
Construction for the new facility in the Smoky Mountains is set to begin as early as the summer of 2014. The new facility will meet safety standards that many other archive facilities do not hold. For this reason, the new center will also house artifacts for other national parks, like the Andrew Johnson National Historical Site, Cumberland Gap National Historic Park and more.
Where To Stay
When staying in the Smoky Mountains you want to be somewhere close to the park and places like the Heritage Center. When you stay with Amazing Views Cabin Rentals you’re guaranteed a phenomenal lodging experience! Don’t just have fun while you’re out exploring, but come home to an amazing cabin with tons of amenities. Enjoy cabins with hot tubs, arcade rooms, home theaters, breathtaking views, and more! Thinking of bringing your dog along with you? No problem! Amazing Views Cabin Rentals offers multiple pet-friendly cabin options that your furry friend will love!
You’re not going to want to miss the opening of this amazing Smoky Mountain facility! Check in for updates on the project and plan your next trip to the Smokies today! For the best deal on your stay, take a look at our Current Cabin Rental Specials and let us know which amenities you are looking for, so we can help you plan the best vacation yet.
