WELCOME TO
BUTLER, TN!
Known world-wide as the "town that wouldn't drown!"
Witness the resilience of its people who persisted despite the relocation and flooding of their town as you view a glimpse of life from a by-gone era.
Our 2023 season will kick off on Memorial Weekend!
Opening hours will be: Saturday from 11:00am-4:00pm Sunday from 1:00-4:00pm & Monday, 11:00am-4:00pm
The season will continue on Saturdays and Sunday until early October. Follow us on Facebook for the latest updates!
Did You Know? There is a song about our history!
The Butler TN
History Museum
The Butler and Watauga Valley Heritage Museum opened in 2000 to honor the citizens of Butler as well as Watauga Valley, Roan Valley and Elk Valley. This first class Museum showcases the history of Butler and the relocation of the town to higher ground to make way for Watauga Lake to provide flood control and cheap electricity.
As you walk into the exhibit area, you will notice that this is not your typical small town Museum. The historical exhibits bring to life the early days of Old Butler and depict the extraordinary effort in relocating this small town, showing why it is known as “the town that would not drown”.
The Museum provides an incredible snapshot of a typical East Tennessee farming and lumber community and tells the story about life from a bygone era. It also reminds us of the price paid for the luxuries that we can experience today.
Our Tours
See and hear the history of Butler and Watauga Lake. The Museum depicts early life in Old Butler and the relocation of this small town to make way for Watauga Lake.
Visit our History Museum
W.S. Stout General Store
American Veterans Memorial Walk
Museum Gift Shop
