In recent weeks, Southwest Virginia has been hard hit by tornados. Although they are uncommon in this area, this was not the first time tornados have struck here. When the March 2008 tornado felled the “Century Oak” which had long stood across from the Gathering in the Gap” Music Festival. For the 2011, “Gathering,” Tom has created a beautiful banjo with oak leaf designs from the wood of the red oak. The banjo is unique because it is carved from the wood, not pieced.
Mr. Dickenson has a personal connection to the Southwest Virginia Museum. His great-grandfather was one of the craftsmen who helped to build the Ayers Mansion, now the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park. Tickets for the “Carved Banjo” are $2.00 each or three for $5.00. They may be purchased in advance of the festival from the website.
For general park information go to our on line.