Shared by Sharon Ewing, as Guest Blogger.

In recent weeks, Southwest Virginia has been hard hit by tornados.  Although they are uncommon in this area, this was not the first time tornados have struck here.  When the March 2008 tornado felled the “Century Oak” which had long stood across from the Southwest Virginia Museum in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, local woodworker and master craftsman Tom Dickenson saw an opportunity to preserve the history of the storied tree.  That year, he created the “Tornado Dulcimer” from some of the wood of the fallen red oak which was raffled off at the 2008 “Gathering in the Gap” Music Festival.  For the 2011, “Gathering,” Tom has created a beautiful banjo with oak leaf designs from the wood of the red oak.  The banjo is unique because it is carved from the wood, not pieced.  

Mr. Dickenson has a personal connection to the Southwest Virginia Museum.  His great-grandfather was one of the craftsmen who helped to build the Ayers Mansion, now the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park.  Tickets for the “Carved Banjo” are $2.00 each or three for $5.00.  They may be purchased in advance of the festival from the Friends of the Museum.  They will also available on the day of the festival, Saturday, May 28, at the Main Stage concession stand.  For additional information, please visit the Gathering in the Gap website.

For general park information go to our website.   The Southwest VA Museum Historical State Park is located at 10 W First Street, Big Stone Gap, VA  24219.  Overnight reservations can also be made by calling 1-800-933-PARK (7275) or by booking on line.