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Museum of Butler, TN
WELCOME TO
BUTLER, TN!
Known world-wide as the
"town that wouldn't drown!"
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BE A PART OF OUR STORY!
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Applications are now being accepted for Community Partner Vendors.
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Partner with us for the Museum of Butler, TN Homecoming as we launch our 2026 Season and begin our America 250 Celebrations. Download
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The Museum of Butler Homecoming is a nonpartisan, community heritage event. As a 501(c)(3) organization, BWVHA does not provide candidate speaking opportunities, political booths, or campaign visibility at this event.
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Volunteers are needed!​​
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All active-duty U.S. military (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Space Force)
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Members of the National Guard and Reserves
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Up to 5 accompanying family members
Military ID required.
SEASON OPENING DAY -
May 23, 2026
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ADMISSION: $5 per person
Children under 12 are FREE
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JOIN US to become a Friend of The Museum for your $25 donation to receive an Annual Pass for you and your family. Download form here.​
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Thanks for your support!
Experience the story of Old Butler
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.
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Our Tours
Relive the history of Old Butler, the only incorporated town to be intentionally flooded by the TVA.
Our carefully curated exhibits will give you a glimpse into our past, the families whose lives were forever changed and the beauty of the Watauga Lake that surrounds us.
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Visit our History Museum
W.S. Stout General Store
American Veterans Memorial Walk
Museum Gift Shop
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