Every year Van Lear is visited by thousands of tourists. The vast majority of these tourists are fans of Loretta Lynn and/or her younger sibling, Crystal Gayle. Currently, we are seeing a large increase in the number of people who wish to visit our historical museum. We offer this guide as an aid to those planning a trip to our area.
1. THE COAL MINERS' MUSEUM
The museum is located at 78 Miller's Creek Road in the build ing formerly occupied by the Consolidation Coal Company. The exhibits include : A collection of mining emplements, a recreation of a doctor's office, a large collection of Van Lear School related memorabilia, a model of a large section of the town as it appeared during it's "boom years", a 1950's store, and many other exhibits. The museum is owned and operated by the Van Lear Historical Society, Inc., a 501(C)(3) non - profit organization. For additional information or to arrange a tour e-mail the society at: tinasuef@yahoo.com or phone: (606)789-8540
Above: Crystal Gayle poses for a picture while touring the Coal Miners' Museum.
2. Butcher Hollow, Van Lear, KY
Visit the original chilhood home of Loretta Lynn, Crystal Gayle, Peggy Sue and Jay Lee Webb. The home is maintained by Mr. Herman Webb, a brother of the recording stars.Herman gives tours nearly everyday as the weather permits. You may inquire by calling Herman directly or by stopping in at Webb's Stop and Shop (The old #5 store.). PHONE: (606) 789 - 3397
(PLEASE REMEMBER THE HOMEPLACE IS PRIVATE PROPERTY AND IS NOT
CONTROLLED IN ANYWAY BY STATE OR LOCAL TOURISM AUTHORITIES.)
3. The Van Lear Historical Society's Rucker Park
In the central section of the town is a minipark that features a retired C&O Railway Caboose, a picnic shelter and swings for the children. The public is invited to use these facilities free of charge. Rucker Park is also the site of many of the festivities during the annual Van Lear Town Celebration. The park was named in honor of Russell "Bill" Rucker on March 13, 2003. Rucker Park is privately owned by the Van Lear Historical Society, Inc.
Donnie Witten, Jimmy Lee and Ronnie Ramey perform during a town celebration.
4. The Van Lear Gymnasium (The Van Lear Masonic Lodge Hall.)
The Van Lear Gymnasium is an excellent example of WPA architecture. The large stone structure features locally cut stone.
(Note : The Van Lear Gymnasium is the private property of The Van Lear Masonic Lodge. Please, show proper respect when visiting.)
5. The Annual Van Lear Town Celebration.
The Van Lear Town Celebration is an annual festival that is held during the first full weekend of August each year. The celebration features old fashioned fun for the entire family. Live music shows, games, food, crafts, a parade and much, much more! For information on the Town Celebration phone: (606)789-8540.
Above: WYMT-TV Weatherman, Jim Caldwell receives a plaque from Danny K. Blevins in recognition of his being the Grand Marshall of the Annual Van Lear Parade 2003.
LINKS TO OTHER EAST KENTUCKY ATTRACTIONS :
THE VAN LEAR HISTORICAL SOCIETY, INC.
P.O. BOX 369
VAN LEAR, KENTUCKY 41265-0369
e-mail: editor@vanlear.org