John Rice Irwin | |
|---|---|
| Born | December 11, 1930 Union County, Tennessee, U.S. |
| Died | January 16, 2022 (aged 91) Clinton, Tennessee, U.S |
| Education | Master's degree |
| Known for | Founder of Museum of Appalachia |
| Spouse |
Elizabeth McDaniel
(m. 1954; died 2008) |
| Children | Elaine Irwin Meyer Karen Irwin |
John Rice Irwin (December 11, 1930 – January 16, 2022) was an American cultural historian, and founder of the Museum of Appalachia in Norris, Tennessee.
His interest in history began at an early age, and was inspired by his grandparents to start a museum. He founded the Museum of Appalachia in 1968, which has since grown significantly in both its size and visitation. He was awarded several accolades and awards, and had eight different published books (seven of which are nationally and internationally distributed).