For the History Lovers…
Pulaski County’s museums tell a two-part tale of Pulaski County’s creation and story. Originally carved out of parts of Montgomery and Wythe Counties in 1839, the rich history of Pulaski County predates this official beginning...
The village of Newbern, an active stop along the Great Wagon Road, was Pulaski County’s original seat. The planned town dates to 1810, and is now on the historic registry with Wilderness Road Museum. The Museum was once the two early homes of the Hance/Alexander Family. The museum site features many original structures from the early settlement time. Original archives and artifacts help share Pulaski County’s history with visitors as well with various living history exhibits, special events, and classes.
While the wagon road made Newbern a candidate for the original seat, the creation of the railroad led to a shift in the new seat and planned town - Pulaski, Virginia. First referred to as Martin’s Tank, the Town of Pulaski started in the 1880’s as a boom-town along the rail line. To continue our story of history, the Raymond F. Ratcliffe Memorial Transportation Museum continues the tale of Wilderness Road Regional Museum’s story. From the 1880s forward, the Ratcliffe Museum offers guests a glimpse at the early businesses, arts, and entertainment that make the Town a thriving community. Railroad history was integral to our story and the museum includes a large O’scale model train display of the Town of Pulaski in the 1950’s. The diorama was lovingly built by a local town dentist and WWII Veteran named, Dr. Brockmeyer.
Today, both Pulaski County and the Town of Pulaski are filled with stories, community, and history. Dive deep into our story, and experience your own story today.
Wilderness Road Museum
https://www.wildernessroadregionalmuseum.com/
https://www.facebook.com/WildernessRRM
Raymond F. Ratcliffe Memorial Transportation Museum
Written by: April Martin
Edited by: Shelby Vandergriff