NORRIS, TN - While most Americans celebrate Independence Day with fireworks, the Museum of Appalachia marks the occasion with old-fashioned “anvil shoots.” Every 4th of July, the Museum uses gunpowder to launch 150-pound anvils hundreds of feet into the air.

“When the gunpowder ignites and the anvil soars into the air, the earth literally shakes,” says Museum President, Elaine Meyer. “The explosion can be heard for several miles.”

Anvil shoots were once a common way for pioneers to celebrate holidays, elections, and other special occasions. While the tradition of anvil-shooting is nearly obsolete, the Museum keeps this unique and exciting pastime alive for a 21st century audience.

Anvil shoots will occur at 9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 1:00 p.m., & 3:00 p.m.

Tickets are available for purchase at museumofappalachia.org. Tickets are available at a 50% discount through June 28th. The event is free for Museum members.

The anvil shoots are the centerpiece of a celebration that includes a bell-ringing ceremony, flag procession, live music, and demonstrations from blacksmiths, beekeepers, spinners, weavers, sawmillers, woodworkers, and more.

For more information, visit the Museum’s website, call 865-494-7680, or e-mail them at museum@museumofappalachia.org.