Crossville’s Military Museum Offers Chance To Reflect

Memorial Day offers a day to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for this country. A local museum has worked almost 20 years to ensure the community never forgets.

Crossville’s Military Memorial Museum volunteer Jerry Daniels said some military memorabilia dates back to the 1800’s.

“We cover the Civil War, World War I, and World War II,” Daniels said. “We have a replica of the POW camps that was here during World War II, we have Korea, Vietnam, the Iraqi War, and today’s war in the building itself.”

Some historical pieces are from Japan, Germany, France, and China. Daniels said some of the earliest artifacts include a 12-pound cannon and a veteran’s tombstone from the Civil War.

“Through the years, the uniforms have changed, the weapons have changed,” Daniels said. “We have some of that, some of the different medals, and different command coins that are on display.”

Daniels said remembering military history is important because all gave, but some gave all.

“I, as a veteran myself from Vietnam, I feel that it’s very, very important that we preserve our history,” Daniels said.

The museum is located in Main Street’s oldest building, dated 1885. Daniels said the museum is funded through donations.