The Miner's Cottage building in Charters Towers was originally purchased by Alan and Beth Silverwood back in November 1992, primarily the aim was to restore the very dilapidated building and establish a showroom for Heritage Floors (a floor sanding/polishing business operated by the Silverwood's. In addition the restored building would serve as gift shop and a retail outlet for restoration products to assist local homeowners to restore their old cottages with authentic brass and period  fittings. Alan Silverwood also restored antique furniture and old brass and iron beds.

The cottage has evolved into its present form from those early days to become a popular tourist attraction housing a museum with a difference.......

Not many museums welcome visitors personally at the front door and proceed to explain in a informal way, the history of this old gold mining town.  Once inside the museum  it will quickly become apparent that this is not a "stuffy" museum full of display cases that you can't touch or hold. This is a place where you can wander about looking at the exhibits, or if you wish you can pick things up and have a closer look!

You may just want to view the video presentations whilst enjoying a free cup of tea or coffee. The Library is well worth a look - you will be amazed at the wide variety of books available for reading on the front verandah. The Miner's Cottage Australian book collection is quite impressive. Many of the books are quite rare and interesting. The collection was purchased from the private collection (estate) of a local man (Mr. Steven Saunders). The books are not for sale but can be loaned out to visitors who lodge a deposit to ensure their safe return.

The Miner's Cottage has developed into a place where unusual and interesting articles from a bygone era can be viewed and kept for future generations. The admission fee helps to keep the collection in Charters Towers.