Director of Communications
amanda.murphy@tn.gov
615-741-9010
Senior Communications Manager
jill.kilgore@tn.gov
615-927-1320
Communications Manager
Alli.Lapps@tn.gov
CLINTON, Tenn. – In pioneer Appalachia, farmers sheared their sheep each spring for wool to spin into yarn or fill quilts.
This annual ritual occurs each spring, trimming the winter’s growth of heavy wool from its flock of sheep, at Sheep Shearing Day 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 21 and April 28 at Museum of Appalachia, a Smithsonian Affiliate Museum.
The wooly animals are trimmed by Kentucky native John Cooper, who explains the process to onlookers and demonstrates the use of vintage hand-cranked shears, offering children the hands-on experience that will last a lifetime.
Spinning, weaving, stitching, and quilting demonstrators show how wool was used to make yarn, thread, fabric, and quilt batting in the days before ready-made clothing and superstores.
Their demonstrations fulfill the Museum’s mission to preserve the Appalachian culture, educating children on their ancestors' heritage. School groups, home-schooled students, and families are welcome.
The Museum is home to sheep, chickens, guineas, and peafowl. Donkeys, Scottish Highland cattle, and a variety of goats roam adjacent pastures. In springtime, children can see young lambs, goats, and chicks.
For more information, contact the museum at 865-494-7680 or museum@museumofappalachia.org.
Tour groups, schools, and homeschool groups please call or email Kate Campbell to schedule your visit. katecampbell@museumofappalachia.org or 865-494-7680
The Museum of Appalachia is located 16 miles north of Knoxville, one mile east of I‐75, exit 122.
# # #
Director of Communications
amanda.murphy@tn.gov
615-741-9010
Senior Communications Manager
jill.kilgore@tn.gov
615-927-1320
Communications Manager
Alli.Lapps@tn.gov