Looking Back ~ Moving Forward...

Looking Back ~

Moving Forward

 The Museum has been housed in the circa 1916 structure known as the Andrew Johnson School building since first opening its doors in 1983. The Town of Greeneville, owner of the building and property, has for some time wanted to pass ownership to The Museum.

Starting in 2015, and after almost three years of extensive study, The Museum board of directors determined that rather than taking ownership of the A.J. building, it would be in The Museum’s best interest to build a new museum-specific structure. The building would feature a one-floor exhibit area accessible to all, ADA compliant restroom facilities and doorways, etc., modern safe electrical, plumbing, state-of-the-art climate control and safety systems, along with additional amenities. The new structure would be located on property already owned by The Museum, located at the corner of Main and McKee Streets. 

The plan was shared publicly, donation pledges were being made and momentum had begun to build. Then, early in 2020 the Covid-19 pandemic hit, forcing the initiative to the back burner. This circumstance reignited discussion and exploration of the specific ways, means and requirements that would be necessary in order for The Museum to proceed with a viable plan to remain in the A.J. building, at least for the time being.

Currently, The Museum board of directors is working with both the Town of Greeneville and Greene County government in an effort to negotiate realistic and fair measures that would enable the Museum to take gradual ownership of the Andrew Johnson School building and property. Desire and determination to maintain and preserve this local award-winning history museum for generations to come is at the forefront of negotiations, as all parties agree that in addition to being an excellent educational resource and vital part of Greeneville/Greene County’s tourism appeal, The Museum plays a significant role in stimulation of the local economy.    

~~Updates will be added here as they develop~~

 

 Looking Back ~

Moving Forward​