🎭 Dunlap Coke Ovens Museum Performance Center Gets Weather Protection with New Glass Roll-Up Door

The Dunlap Coke Ovens Coal Mining Museum and Park is moving forward with a major upgrade to its Performance Center, enclosing the stage area to shield performers and equipment from the elements. The project reflects ongoing community investment in the museum’s cultural and recreational mission on Mountain View Circle in Dunlap.

📍 Stage Enclosure Takes Shape

Work on the Performance Center’s east wall is underway, with Earl Eames and Historical Member Gary McDow completing alignment work for the wall structure. The team has ordered a custom 12×12 glass roll-up door to be installed behind the Bluegrass Band floor, providing flexible access while protecting the stage from weather. An emergency exit door will be incorporated beside the roll-up door to meet safety requirements. ✨

🛠️ Materials and Finishing Details

The exterior will be finished with custom 6-inch western red cedar lap siding to match the museum’s existing architecture, ensuring visual continuity across the site. Simmons Garage Doors has been contracted to install the glass roll-up door, bringing professional expertise to the project. 🏗️

💰 Funding and Support

The completion of this project is being funded by Sequatchie Valley Historical Association members, building on earlier construction work supported by a 2026 Capital Improvement Grant from the Tennessee State Museum. This partnership between local volunteers and state resources demonstrates sustained commitment to preserving and enhancing the museum’s facilities. ❤️

🗓️ Hours and Access

The Dunlap Coke Ovens Coal Mining Museum and Park is open each Saturday and Sunday through Thanksgiving. The park grounds remain available daily during daylight hours year-round, though visitors are asked to respect no-trespassing rules after sundown or when the sun dips below the mountain ridge as viewed from the park. 🌄