Raising a Statue, Honoring a Legacy
The Miners Memorial Statue Fund
My earliest memories are of the pride that filled Copperhill and the entire Copper Basin, a community whose livelihood, identity, and spirit were centered around the mining operation and the many divisions that supported it. That pride wasn’t found only in the mines themselves, but in the families, neighborhoods, schools, churches, and businesses that grew and prospered alongside them.
I was raised in a copper mining family, and like so many others, I watched my dad dedicate his life to the mines until the operation came to an end in 1987. Those miners didn’t just earn a living. They built this community, raised their families, and shaped the character and resilience that still define Copperhill and the Copper Basin today.
The wooden miner statue became a symbol of that proud heritage. As time and the elements eventually claimed it, it became clear that we owed those men and women something more enduring. One of my goals as mayor has been to help bring that vision to life by commissioning a bronze statue that will stand for generations, a permanent tribute worthy of the sacrifices, hard work, and unwavering spirit that built this region.
The Miner Statue Project belongs to all of us. It is a community effort that extends far beyond the City of Copperhill to honor the legacy of the miners and ensure that future generations never forget where we came from or the people whose dedication made the Copper Basin what it is today.
Mayor Greg Barker
Bronze · 6 Feet · Miners Row
About the Project
City of Copperhill is a recipient of a $25,000 grant for Tennessee America 250 initiatives from the Tennessee Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial. The grant award will be used for creating a statue recognizing the historic mining heritage of Copperhill, Tennessee and the surrounding communities.
The State of Tennessee made available funding to be administered by the Tennessee State Museum, on behalf of the Commission to support statewide America 250 activities.
The second round of the Tennessee America 250 grant program was a highly competitive process. In total, the Commission received 365 applications, totaling $6,364,017 in requests. The Commission has made full or partial awards for 194 grants across the state, representing 73 counties, for a total of $2,267,058 awarded. A complete list of second round Tennessee America 250 grantees, counties and amounts is posted at www.tn250.com.
“I am inspired by the excitement across the state to commemorate our nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Ashley Howell, Executive Director of the Tennessee State Museum and Chair of the Tennessee Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial. “This year will be filled with exhibitions, programs, festivals, and preservation of our local and state history. We hope that these projects inspire Tennesseans across the state to engage with the anniversary in 2026.”
“Erecting a miners statue in Copperhill will serve as a lasting tribute to the laborers who worked tirelessly both underground and above ground to build this community,” said Mayor Greg Barker. “It honors not only the miners, but also the many workers in other trades who supported the mining and chemical operations and helped shape the Copper Basin’s strong sense of community, a learned respect for nature, and authentic heritage. Thanks to this $25,000 grant through the Tennessee America 250 initiative from the Tennessee Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial, we can recognize the hardworking families whose contributions helped shape our region, our beloved Tennessee, and nation for generations.”
The Tennessee America 250 Project Support Grants and Community Support Grants had maximum request amounts of $20,000 and $25,000, respectively. All projects funded in the second round must be completed by April 30, 2027.
As part of this project, the City of Copperhill hopes to raise enough funds to build an inviting space along Ocoee Street, tentatively called Miners Row, for everyone to enjoy. The Miners Statue will sit in the middle as the focal point along the already installed Copperhill benches and banners funded by a grant from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development / Tennessee Downtowns Program.
Four Ways to Give
How to Contribute
Every bit helps, and every path leads to the same dedicated fund. Choose whatever way feels easiest for you, we're grateful for all of it.
Donate Online
Secure card or bank donation through the city's payment processor. Choose your amount below.
Coming SoonMail a Check
Payable to City of Copperhill. P.O. Box 640, Copperhill, TN 37317. Note "Miners Statue Fund" in the memo.
In Person
Drop cash or a check at Copperhill City Hall, Mon–Fri, 8am–4pm. Receipts on request.
T-Shirt
Puchase a limited edition T-Shirt to support the miners statue fund for $30 each. T-Shirts can be purchased at Buck Bald Brewing (while supplies last).
