(304) 256-1768 409 S Kanawha St. Beckley, WV 25801 YOUTH MUSEUM Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia | 509 Ewart Ave. P.O. Box 2514 Beckley, WV 25802 Current Happenings Youth Museum Current Exhibit Events and Classes The Mountain Homestead Planetarium Puzzle Quest Information and Policies Regular and Group Rates Upcoming Exhibits Youth Museum Contact Information Departments Administration Community Development Finance Department Technology Public Works Code Enforcement Beckley Police Department Fire Department Parks and Recreation Youth Museum Exhibition Coal Mine Sanitary Board Human Rights Celebrating 40+ award winning years 1977 – 2021 Hours Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 am – 5:00 pm No matter what time of year you visit Beckley, West Virginia, you will find many scenic, cultural, and recreational opportunities awaiting you. Two of the most unique attractions are the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine and the Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia. These two popular institutions officially joined April 1, 2002, in an effort to portray the history, culture and character of this uncommon coal-mining region. As the focal points of the City’s lovely New River Park, the Exhibition Coal Mine and the Youth Museum draw thousands of people to the area annually. The unique underground mine, the recreated coal camp, the Youth Museum and their Mountain Homestead are surrounded by inviting lawns, colorful flowers, picnic areas, an imposing coal miner statue and a whimsical 20 ft. “Peace Totem”. Located just footsteps away from the Exhibition Coal Mine, the Youth Museum of Southern West Virginia is open to the public year round and available at any time for pre-arranged tour groups. The Youth Museum’s main gallery is made up of four railroad boxcars. The central exhibit area features an average of three different exhibits yearly. Designed to entertain as well as educate, the exhibits range from “T-Rex”, “Bats”, and “Artist in the Studio” to “Page after Page”, an award winning children’s authors presentation. Group tours include a visit to the Museum’s Planetarium. Seasonal programs highlight constellations, visible planets and special celestial events. Behind the Museum’s main building, stands the Mountain Homestead. Developed to enrich history studies, the Museum has recreated a typical settlement on the Appalachian frontier. Trained interpreters explain the importance of each reconstructed historical building. Visit the weaver’s shed – complete with loom and spinning wheels. In the two-story log house, groups listen as the guide explains the many interesting artifacts and antiques made and used by the rugged individuals that settled this region. Step back in time as you enter the one room school and experience “readin’, writin’, and rithmetic’” as it used to be. The barn, blacksmith shop, and general store all help to complete this rich historical journey of the late 19th century. In 2000, the Youth Museum was awarded the prestigious Institute of Museum and Library Services, National Museum Service Award. The award was presented in Washington D.C. by President Clinton and Mrs. Clinton and was given in recognition of the Museum’s vital community outreach programs. One price encompasses all activities at both the Exhibition Mine and the Youth Museum during the summer months. Group rates are available. Reservations are required. May, June and October dates fill quickly; so reserve early to avoid disappointment. The complex is located just 2 ½ miles from Exit 44 of Interstate 77/64. Turn east on Rt. 3 (Harper Rd.) Go 1 1/2 miles to Ewart Ave. Make a left on Ewart Ave. and go 1 mile to the Mine Complex entrance. Call (304) 256-1747 for reservations. Both the Exhibition Coal Mine and the Youth Museum have gift shops offering unique coal figurines, homemade fudge, traditional and educational toys, local crafts, and books. The Youth Museum offers a rewarding and educational experience for people of all ages and interests. Nestled in the beautiful mountains of Southern West Virginia, we encourage everyone to come and visit all the Mine, the Museum, and our community has to offer! Daily 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Winter Hours: November 2 – March 31 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Tuesday – Saturday ** Extended hours available by appointment for group tours and special events. Planetarium presentations are reserved for pre-arranged groups of 15 or more. Mountain Homestead tours limited in the winter months due to weather. ** The Youth Museum welcomes visitors with disabilities. Please let us know in advance if you or anyone in your party requires special accommodations and we will gladly make them. ** If you have scheduled a group tour and less than the required 15 people arrive, regular admission fees will apply. Join us on Facebook @ Youth Museum of Southern WV DEPARTMENTS Administration Community Development Finance Department Technology Public Works Code Enforcement Beckley Police Department Fire Department Parks and Recreation Youth Museum Exhibition Coal Mine Sanitary Board Human Rights LATEST NEWS Special Council Meeting to Discuss the Beckley Landfill Remediation November 18, 2021 Beckley’s Christmas Parade scheduled for December 4 November 17, 2021 Common Council Will Be Remote on 11/9/2021 November 9, 2021 Veterans Day and Christmas Parades seeking entries November 8, 2021 City Hall 409 S Kanawha St Beckley, WV 25801 304-256-1768 Copyright © City of Beckley, WV | Web Design by Cucumber and Company Sitemap | Contact Us | LogIn