The Apollo rocket was powered by hydrazine, manufactured at the Olin Company chemical plant in Saltville. The most complete prehistoric musk-ox skeleton ever found in North America outside Alaska was discovered in Saltville. Today, the Museum of the Middle Appalachians is being developed to preserve the archeological treasures that are being unearthed in Saltville. 1982 Smyth County celebrated its sesquicentennial. Smyth County enjoys the benefits of a newly diversified economy.
New businesses are established, existing businesses expand, and new roads are under construction.