TOWN OF CLINTWOOD

Originally called Holly Creek, the Town of Clintwood, was incorporated in 1894 and serves as the county seat for Dickenson County, Virginia. The town form of government for the population of 1,542 is complete with a mayor and five council members who have been very progressive the last several years to re-vitalize the downtown area. In an era of economic downswing of the coal industry, the Town, the County, and the Coalfield Region have been battling back. Starting with the elements of most necessity, the Town of Clintwood has been able to implement many infrastructure projects, such as water, sewer, drains, sidewalks, etc. Additionally, a kids’ park, walking track, the Jettie Baker Center, and a historical and community mural have enhanced the quality of life for the residents and added to the attractiveness of the Town for visitors.

Clintwood is the home of the Ralph Stanley Museum and Traditional Mountain Music Center. In a very admirable move on the part of the Town of Clintwood, they were able to purchase the century old, Historic Chase House and in 2002 renovate the exterior, as a part of the Downtown Revitalization Project. In 2003, a funding package was put together to design and reconstruct the interior into the Ralph Stanley Museum and Traditional Mountain Music Center. In October of 2004 this state of the art facility will be open to the public, in honor of the life and illustrious musical career of Dr. Ralph Stanley, legendary bluegrass and old time mountain musician and beloved Dickensonian. The Town, County and surrounding area are looking forward to welcoming the world to the Museum, a crowing jewel of the Virginia’s Heritage Trail: The Crooked Road. The Museum is a showcase of invaluable artifacts from the life and career of Dr. Stanley, as well as, a cutting edge presentation of audio/visual excellence that tells the story in many ways. The project also endeavors to celebrate and perpetuate the genre of music that has strong roots here in Dickenson County through educational programs and performances.

While in Clintwood, visitors will want to catch an event at the Jettie Baker Center, just down the street from the Ralph Stanley Museum and Traditional Mountain Music Center. Originally the Mullins Theater, the venue was constructed in the 1940’s. After over a decade of non-use, the property was donated to the Town by Ms. Jettie Baker, and then renovated to serve as a facility for performing arts, entertainment, and conference center. The Center hosts multiple musical performances monthly that include local musicians and well known stars. Of the 350 seats, it can be said that there is not a bad seat in the house, due to the excellent sound and lighting system.