9 Oldest Founded Tennessee Towns to Visit In 2024
Tennessee earned the nickname "Volunteer State" for its landmark role in influencing the War of 1812. Its colorful historical heritage extends back centuries to the first permanent European settlement in the 18th century. Several of the villages established during this early founding era have endured to the present day as some of Tennessee's oldest continually inhabited towns. These hidden gems provide a window to a critical period in the state's history, helping to preserve rare sites and nostalgic memories.
Scattered across the diverse landscapes of the Volunteer State, from mountain hamlets to riverside ports, these serve as ideal destinations for history buffs. Wandering their quiet streets transports visitors back to explore Tennessee's deepest roots. Join the journey to uncover exciting stories in these oldest towns to visit in Tennessee.
Jonesborough
"Tennessee's Oldest Town" existed before Tennessee became a state. Jonesborough was founded by European Americans in 1779 and named after North Carolina legislator Willie Jones. It hosts a lovely historic district where visitors can explore some of the town's best-kept secrets. Teeming with museums, it promises a riveting journey full of nostalgic experiences. The Chester Inn Historic Site and Museum sits in the heart of downtown as Jonesborough's oldest wooden frame structure. Inside, guests can peruse a library of records chronicling the town's history since its origins. However, more photographs, archives, and artifacts are available at the Jonesborough Washington County History Museum if you want a broader perspective of local history.
The arts are a big part of local culture, which is evident when visiting the Jonesborough Repertory Theatre on Main Street. For years, the venue has hosted dance, musicals, drama, and concerts to entertain audiences of all ages.
Lynchburg
Lynchburg's claim to fame is home to one of Tennessee's most famous exports, Jack Daniels. It is an excellent destination if you want to learn about the region's whiskey culture, as it hosts the Jack Daniel’s Distillery. Besides learning about the brand's rich origins, touring the facility offers a look into the process of crafting an internationally respected whiskey. However, Lynchburg harbors a rich heritage that began with the arrival of settlers at the turn of the century.
The Lynchburg Historic District charms with well-preserved landmarks preserving the town's storied history. Notable sites to check out include the Moore County OId Jail Museum, which was constructed in 1893 and remained active until 1900. The venue exhibits various artifacts documenting life in Lynchburg from the perspective of convicts. Finally, culinary enthusiasts can enjoy a unique dining experience with a touch of history at Miss Mary Bobo's Restaurant, known for serving tasty Southern cuisine in an antebellum-style mansion.
Greeneville
Greeneville's origins date back to 1783, when it was founded as one of the state's older towns. Discovering the Greeneville Historic District promises historians an exciting trip down memory. The lovely neighborhood is chock-full of landmarks and monuments showcasing the town's different sides, including the Andrew Johnson Historic Site. This preserved historic homestead of America's 17th president has various artifacts from the early stages of his political career. The Dickson-Williams Mansion is another notable landmark you can tour for a glimpse of Greeneville in the 19th century.
However, if you want to delve deeper into Greeneville's wide-reaching past, you can clear your schedule to peruse the Greeneville Greene County History Museum's broad archive and artifact collection. There is no better way to cap off the historical experience than with a vintage souvenir from the Greeneville Antique Market.
Gatlinburg
Although it is not known as a historical destination, Gatlinburg was first settled in the early 1800s. It is more famous for being a gateway to the highly popular Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Gatlinburg receives continuous tourist traffic as adventurers from across the country jostle to explore its crowning jewel. It is riddled with family-friendly attractions, highlighted by the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. This world-class aquarium delivers unique encounters with beautiful aquatic species like stingrays and penguins. Families love Gatlinburg for its theme parks, with Anakeesta delighting with gondola rides and zipline tours with exquisite views of the Smokies' wilderness.
The Ripley's Believe It or Not museum is among the most visited spots in the town. Its display of oddities and unusual exhibits never fails to intrigue first-timers. Finally, the Village Shops ensures visitors enjoy a luxurious shopping and dining experience.
Columbia
Situated about 48 miles from Nashville, Columbia is one of the state's first Main Street communities. It was incorporated in 1817 and stands out for an impressive display of old-world architecture on 19th-century structures throughout the Historic Downtown Columbia Public Square. Sitting in the heart of the district is the majestic Maury County Courthouse, one of the most picturesque buildings in the town. Not too far from the courthouse, President James K. Polk Home and Museum invites tourists for exciting tours documenting the former president's legacy in his 19th-century home.
The Athenaeum is another beautiful landmark worth visiting. This historic building dates back to the mid-1800s and features intricate Moorish and Gothic architectural elements. After combing all the top sites in Columbia, try its tasty, locally crafted brews at Bad Idea Brewing Company.
Rogersville
One of the oldest towns to visit in Tennessee, Rogersville was first settled in 1775 and got its name from the founder, Joseph Rogers. It has a beautiful historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Walking around the area reveals famous landmarks like the Swift Museum, which tells the story of Swift Memorial College, a historic African-American college built after the Civil War. Meanwhile, the Tennessee Newspaper and Printing Museum chronicles the state's printing history with historical exhibits, highlighted by a replica of George Roulstone's 1791 newspaper.
When not immersed in Rogersville's past, tourists can engage with the local arts community at the Local Artists Gallery by browsing a collection of original paintings, handmade jewelry, blown glass, and other intricate pieces by different artists. A lively pub and restaurant scene means that visitors can choose from multiple hangouts, including the Hollywood Hillbilly, to blow off steam after a long day.
Bell Buckle
This quaint community in Bedford County came up when the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad passed through the region in 1852. Its downtown district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is famous for its multiple antique stores. Exploring the area allows you to find lovely vintage treasures and primitive items to add to your collection from establishments like Blue Bird Antiques. Those who enjoy sampling local dishes can stop by the Bell Buckle Cafe for hearty American fare in an old-fashioned diner with a cozy setting.
Meanwhile, Bell Buckle Park provides a delightful escape to the open spaces along well-maintained walking trails and peaceful picnic pavilions. The serene atmosphere is perfect for an easygoing time with friends or family.
Maryville
Before it became Maryville, this small town was the site of Fort Craig, built by settlers in 1785 to guard against Indian attacks. It was eventually established in 1795 and named after Mary Grainger. The Blount County Historical Museum features various exhibits that teach about the town's history and that of the surrounding area. Meanwhile, Cades Cove Preservation and Cades Cove Museum offer a glimpse into pioneer life in Maryville using exciting relics and period furnishings.
Maryville invites movie lovers and art enthusiasts to enjoy live screenings and shows at the rustic Palace Theater, which hosts everything from children's drama and concerts to movies. Finally, outdoorsy travelers can find the ideal environment for recreation at Bicentennial Greenbelt Park.
Pulaski
Pulaski traces its founding back to 1809 and was named after Casimir Pulaski, a Polish-born general from the American Revolutionary War. The town is also associated with the birthplace of the Ku Klux Klan and the infamous execution of Sam Davis. At the original site of the execution, you can explore the Sam Davis Memorial Museum, which pays tribute to the "Boy Hero of the Confederacy." Visitors can get a feel of the mid-1800s Pulaski at the Historic Daly-Horne House, the former homestead of Governor John C. Brown known for its gorgeous Queen Anne-style architecture.
The Staar Theater at Antoinette Hall is where art enthusiasts in Pulaski converge to enjoy compelling live performances by local creatives. If you fancy a tasty glass of wine, consider passing by Big Creek Winery to sample what the town offers.
Final Thought
Tennessee's rich history saw it playing a critical role during notable 19th-century conflicts that shaped the United States. Delving into the region's deepest roots by exploring the oldest small towns to visit in Tennessee assures travelers of illuminating lessons from the state's formative years. Besides their colorful history, they have a nice mix of alternative attractions to deliver a wholesome tourist experience. Whether you are a fan of American history or not, you can look forward to a fulfilling trip in any of the highlighted locations.
