Over Memorial Day weekend of 2008, the Butler Cave Conservation Society (BCCS) will celebrate and commemorate Ike Nicholson's 1958 discovery of the Butler Cave-Sinking Creek Cave System in the Burnsville Cove area of Virginia. Heralded as the longest known cave in Virginia for more than a generation, Butler Cave remains one of the more significant caves of the United States. Discovery and exploration of the nearby Chestnut Ridge Cave System in the 1980's established the presence of a far larger, interconnected cave system in the area. Exploration, mapping, and science research continue in both cave systems to this day.

Ten years after the discovery of Butler Cave, cavers established the Butler Cave Conservation Society, Inc. (a 501-C-3 corporation) to manage and conserve the cave. At 40 years old, the BCCS is the oldest, continuously operated, private cave preserve in the nation.

By Official Proclamation of Governor Timothy Kaine, May 24 will be designated as Butler Cave Discovery Day across the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Old-time cavers who "probed the basements" of Burnsville Cove, friends of the BCCS, interested parties, and especially those involved in the early exploration of Butler Cave are cordially invited to be our guests for the May 2008 celebration at the BCCS Homestead. Meet old friends, participate in commemorative events, enjoy a catered dinner, reminiscence around a phenomenal fire ring, and (of course) go caving! There is no fee for the event, but reservations are required so that we can plan a great event for everyone!