Big South Fork Scenic Railway

Pictures in Blue Heron and the National Park

     The Stearns Coal & Lumber Company used species of birds as a way to advertise their grades of coal.  Each mine produced a different grade, with names like Golden Pheasant and Scarlet Tanager.  The newest mine and tipple the company owned in 1938 was Blue Heron.  This mine, tipple, and surrounding camp houses were abandoned in 1962.

     When the train makes it's stopover in Blue Heron, visitors may take a self-guided tour of the site.  Instead of a complete restoration, the Blue Heron site is designed as an oral history center, where the people who actually lived and worked here tell their story through audio recordings housed in "ghost structures".  The ghost structures are simply representations of where the actual buildings once stood many years ago.

     In addition to the ghost structures, there is a picnic shelter, concession stand, and gift shop to explore.  The site is now owned and operated by the National Park Service as part of the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area.  A National Park Service Ranger is usually available to answer any questions you may have.  The National Park Service may be reached at 606-376-5073.

A picture of the hard working miners during the busy years at Mine #18 at Blue Heron

Often times there are special activities and displays in the National Park at Blue Heron.  Kids of all ages were enjoying the display of antique toys during early October 2004.

You never know when some good 'ol pickin' will break out!

Special events are periodically held at Blue Heron.  On October 16, 2004, the Knoxville Dulcimer Club shared their special music with park visitors.  An added treat was Glenn Greene playing a Swedish nyckelharpa.

rev. 10/28/06