This immersive journey through time celebrated the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Scott County. The full-day bus tour began in Gate City and wound through East Carter’s Valley, Duffield, Clinchport, Rye Cove, Ft. Blackmore, Dungannon, Nickelsville, and Big Moccasin. Along the route, participants visited significant landmarks such as the Natural Tunnel, the Daniel Boone Wilderness Trail Interpretive Center, Ford of the Clinch, various historic forts and mill sites, and scenic valleys that played pivotal roles in the region’s development. Led by local history expert, Danny Dixon, this tour brought local history to life, connecting participants with the stories, people, and places that have helped define Scott County.

This tour offered an eye-opening look into the infrastructure that supports everyday life in Scott County. Starting at the Duffield water and sewer plants, participants gained firsthand insight into the systems that deliver and manage one of our most vital resources. The group then visited Scott County Telephone Cooperative (SCTC), where they learned about local telecommunications and broadband efforts. The tour continued with an educational stop at the regional landfill, followed by a visit to Clinch River Health Services in Dungannon. There, attendees enjoyed a presentation, lunch, and guided tour, deepening their understanding of rural healthcare delivery in the region.

Throughout the years, each class has taken on meaningful projects that reflect their unique interests and the needs of the community. Here’s a look at what they’ve accomplished.

• Trash Cleanup at Powell Mountain Overlook

• History of Quarry Pond in Gate City

• Street Map of Gate City

• Landscaping at Hiltons Volunteer Fire Dept.

• Sprucing Up Gate City Club Signs

• Cleanup and Landscaping the Tourism Kiosk at Moccasin Gap

• Develop a Birding Trail Brochure for Rikemo Lodge

• Landscaping at Keith Memorial Park

• River Access Clean up