Museums - Athens State University

The Delmore Brothers, Tennessee Valley Old Times Fiddlers, and Sports Museums are temporarily closed during renovations and re-curation of the objects. Please look for exhibitions from the Museum Collections at the Nazaretian Alumni Welcome Center and join us there at the 2026 Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention for The Delmore Brothers 100^th Anniversary Exhibition!

Contact Museum Curator Lisa Hoffman if you have any questions or potential non-cash gift donations to the Museums at 256-233-8184 or by email: [email protected].

Athens State’s rich history — 200 years’ worth — is a big part of our story and our legacy. We’re proud of our traditions and love sharing the Athens State story with others. We have three museums on campus that celebrate these rich traditions. Learn more below and plan your visit to come see them yourself!

Located on the Ground Floor of McCandless Hall

Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Museum

The Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention Museum was opened in 2016 in honor of the 50th anniversary of the event. It would not have been possible without the support of the TVOTFC Steering Committee and the generous donations and work of committed community members and volunteers. The Tennessee Valley and North Alabama have always been a “hotbed of traditional old-time music.” The museum features photos and memorabilia from this long and vibrant history. Athens State University is honored to continue being a proud host for the folk music legacy that is the Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention.

Support the Fiddlers Museum

Located on the Ground Floor of McCandless Hall

Delmore Brothers Museum

The Delmore Brothers made up of Alton and Rabon, found their start right here in Limestone County, Alabama. “Born into poverty near Elkmont, sons of tenant farmers, amid a rich tradition of gospel and Appalachian folk music;” they went on to write over 1200 songs. The Delmore Brothers became stars of the Grand Ole Opry, Grammy winners, and Country Music Hall of Famers. The Delmore Brothers Museum has been open since 2008, thanks to the generous donation of artifacts from Debby Delmore, the youngest daughter of Alton Delmore. Athens State University is proud to support the goal of preserving and sharing the influential and diverse sounds of the Delmore Brothers for generations to come.

Support the Delmore Brothers Museum

Located in Carter Gymnasium

Sports Museum

The Sports Museum showcases photos, mascots, trophies, and memorabilia from over 100 years of Athens State sports. The museum highlights a diverse array of artifacts from the early days of tennis and swimming to championship softball and basketball teams. The Sports Museum was founded with generous community support and continues to honor decades of dedicated athletes, coaches, and the community who cheered them on.

Support the Sports Museum

Lisa Hoffman

Museum Curator, Part-time

256-233-8184 256-233-8184 [email protected]

Office of University Advancement