General Information
Mission
The Frank H. McClung Museum is an important component of The University of Tennessee, and participates in the implementation of the University's mission. The University of Tennessee is committed to the development of individuals and society as a whole through the cultivation and enrichment of the human mind and spirit. This is to be accomplished through teaching, scholarship, artistic creation, public service, and professional practice.
The complementary mission of the Frank H. McClung Museum is to advance understanding and appreciation of the earth and its peoples through the collection, preservation, study, interpretation, and exhibition of objects and data. The Museum is dedicated to the support of the academic programs of The University and to the attraction and education of the broadest spectrum of participants.
Vision
The vision of the Frank H. McClung Museum is to be one of the premier museums in the Southeast, and to expand the Museum's presence in the University, the community, the state, and the nation. This expanded role is founded on public service, education, and inclusion, grounded in stewardship and scholarship.
Archaeological Institute of America - East Tennessee Society
The McClung Museum is closely affiliated with the Archaeological Institute of America - East Tennessee Society. The Museum provides a venue for the Society's monthly meetings and lectures, hosts the Society's Website, and provides other cooperation and support.
The Museum Building
The Frank H. McClung Museum was built with money bequeathed to the University of Tennessee by Judge and Mrs. John Green of Knoxville as a memorial to Mrs. Green's father, Frank H. McClung. The Museum building was officially dedicated on 1 June 1963.
The Museum is an outstanding facility. Approximately one-quarter of the 38,500 square-foot brick building is devoted to exhibits. Remaining space is dedicated to a 267-seat auditorium, laboratories, library, photographic resources, storage, workshop, and offices.
Visitors begin their museum experience in a spacious lobby with walls of handmade brick, and floors of Tennessee quartzite.
A fountain of marble and travertine is centered under the domed ceiling and is crowned by The Vine, a bronze statue of a woman dancing, sculpted by American artist Harriet Whitney Frishmuth, circa 1923.
Accessibility
The Museum is accessible to persons using wheelchairs.
Accommodations for persons with other disabilities may be requested in advance. Please see the Museum floorplans to familiarize yourself with the location of exhibits, elevators, and restrooms.