Upon entering the quaint town of Rogersville, Tennessee's pioneer history comes to life, even with its close proximity to buzzing Knoxville and Northeast Tennessee.
Photo Credit:
Andrew Saucier
Channeling the Pioneer Spirit in Rogersville, Tennessee
Be awed by preserved pioneer-era structures. It's where history dances with the 21st century in Rogersville, Tennessee.
June 1, 2020
Tennessee's colonial vibe can be felt. Rogersville is widely considered to be the second oldest settlement in Tennessee, after Jonesborough. Modernity resides next to history here. Yet, it is possible to stroll the streets of Rogersville and see much of what could be seen there more than 150-200 years ago. Time has not eroded its most essential colonial and frontier qualities.
The old storefronts are still in business, offering shopping experiences full of antiques, gift items, local and regional works of art and more. Stroll the historic district to see historically important buildings like Rogersville Synodical College campus circa 1849; Overton Lodge No. 5 F&A.M. circa 1839; Hawkins County Courthouse circa 1936 and Hale Springs Inn circa 1984.
Tennessee Newspaper and Printing Museum
Photo Credit:
Journal Communications Inc./Jeff Adkins
Hear the story of how the first piece of printing attempted in Tennessee, the Knoxville Gazette, came to Rogersville. Inside, you'll see exhibits on historic Rogersville and printing presses. Learn the process of printing that took place in the late 1700s, early 1800s and how that set the foundation for printing today.
Thomas Amis Historic Site
The Thomas Amis Historic Site is home to the oldest stone dam in Tennessee and was constructed in 1780 by Capt. Thomas Amis. During his time, Amis hosted famous people including Daniel Boone, Andrew Jackson, John Sevier, James Robertson and many revolutionary heroes. Walk the grounds to see the Amis House, the dam and the old Mill. Then have a meal at the Amis Mill Eatery.
Amis Mill Eatery
Pull up a chair at the 1800s-era Amis Mill Eatery that serves up crawfish etouffee, barbecue, smoked prime rib, burgers and homemade desserts. More than 60 acres of nature surround the restaurant, perfect for hiking, boating and fishing after your meal.
To see a town like Rogersville is to come to understand some of the vast history of Tennessee. Experience it yourself.
