Historic LaFollette put up workplace preserved for artwork, tourism

LAFOLLETTE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Visitors are cordially invited to immerse themselves in the art of Postmarked LaFollette in the historic city center, in the former US post office building.

Campbell County residents are invited to partake in a rainbow of art experiences, from free summer art classes for kids to live concerts. The center is recognized as a regional strong winner of the EU for its work in the community Cumberland Gap Region Tourist Board.

“You received this historic building here. They have an art, history and culture here that is just wonderful for promoting the Campbell County area, ”said Carl Nichols, director of the Tourism Association.

He leads efforts to recognize this and programs in five counties in East Tennessee, four counties in southeast Kentucky and one in Virginia at the Strong Region Awards ceremony on May 25th. The event is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at Berkau Park in the historic Cumberland Gap.

Nichols said he is working with organizations across the region to build tourism for all. “Strong parishes make strong counties and strong counties make a strong Cumberland Gap,” said Nichols.

Founding member Jo Anne McCloud Myers said Postcard LaFollette began several years ago. “The post office moved out in 2008 and was empty.” The city bought the building, then organized parishioners to use the venue for the arts. “Even exhibitions from the Smithsonian are part of our artistic activities here.” The arts encompass everything from handicrafts sold in the co-op store to live concerts to theatrical presentations written and produced by Campbell County residents.

General Manager Elaine Schatzline-Behr said of the business’s requirements, “We require it to be handcrafted and that you live in Campbell County. Apart from that, we are very, very flexible. “

The shop stocks handcrafted jewelry and quilts, as well as locally-preserved organic canned goods.

Tony Branan directs the show with Appalachian music from yesterday and today, called Postmarked Jamboree, traditionally located in the post office.

“We want to preserve this building and keep it active. And we chose a radio program loosely based on an earlier program that used to be on LaFollette and called the Tennessee Jamboree. “

In the meantime, efforts are being made to use the space to preserve family history by letting residents tell what they remember in the film about past generations. Bradley Smiddy heads the Filmworks division, which is also affiliated with Postmark LaFollette. “We went back to the time of the civil war and, most importantly, how families found their way north.”

McCloud Myers is thrilled to see the myriad ways Postmark LaFollette can continue to be a focal point for the community, serving residents and attracting visitors.

“We tell our stories about our history and our culture through the arts. And it doesn’t matter what art we use, ”he said.

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