Knox County, TN FAQs
What is the history of Knox County, TN and what are its notable landmarks?
History of Knox County, TN
- was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Creek nations.
- European settlers began to arrive in the late 18th century, and the area was part of the Southwest Territory before becoming part of the state of Tennessee in 1796.
- Knoxville, the county seat, was founded in 1786
- was the first capital of Tennessee before Nashville became the capital in 1843.
- Knox County played a prominent role in the early history of Tennessee, including serving as a major transportation and trade hub with its location along the Tennessee River and the development of the railroad system in the 19th century.
- During the Civil War, Knox County was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Union and others supporting the Confederacy. The city of Knoxville was occupied by Union forces during the war, and the Battle of Fort Sanders, a significant engagement, took place in Knoxville in 1863.
- Over the years, Knox County has grown and developed, becoming a significant economic and cultural center in eastern Tennessee.
Notable Landmarks in Knox County, TN
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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- is the most visited national park in the United States, known for its scenic beauty, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife.
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- Market Square
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- Located in downtown Knoxville, Market Square
- a historic public square that has been a center of commerce and community gathering since the 19th century
- now a vibrant area with restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
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- Knoxville Museum of Art
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- a museum that features a collection of regional art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs
- also hosts rotating exhibitions and educational programs.
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- University of Tennessee, Knoxville
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- a major public research university and one of the oldest public universities in the United States
- known for its strong academic programs, sports programs, and cultural events.
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- Tennessee Theatre
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- a historic theater in downtown Knoxville that opened in 1928
- known for its ornate architecture and interior design
- hosts a variety of concerts, shows, and events throughout the year.
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- Knoxville Old City
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- a historic neighborhood in downtown Knoxville that is known for its preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries
- now a trendy area with restaurants, bars, and shops.
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- World’s Fair Park
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- was the site of the 1982 World’s Fair
- now a public park with green spaces, fountains, and a large sunsphere, which is a notable landmark of the park.
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- East Tennessee History Center
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- a museum and research library that showcases the history and culture of East Tennessee, including exhibits on the early settlement, Native American history, and the Civil War.
What are the recreational activities available in Knox County, TN?
- Outdoor Recreation: Knox County is located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The county also has numerous parks, greenways, and nature trails that provide opportunities for walking, jogging, cycling, and picnicking. Some popular parks in Knox County include Ijams Nature Center, Lakeshore Park, and Concord Park.
- Water Activities: The Tennessee River and its tributaries run through Knox County, providing opportunities for boating, kayaking, and fishing. There are also several lakes in the area, including Fort Loudoun Lake and Melton Hill Lake, which offer boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities.
- Sports and Athletics: Knox County has a vibrant sports scene, with many opportunities for sports and athletics. The county has numerous sports fields, courts, and facilities for sports such as baseball, softball, soccer, basketball, tennis, and golf. There are also recreational sports leagues and clubs for both youth and adults.
- Cultural and Entertainment Activities: Knox County is known for its rich cultural and entertainment scene. The county is home to numerous theaters, museums, art galleries, and music venues, offering opportunities for concerts, performances, exhibits, and cultural events. Some popular cultural attractions in Knox County include the Knoxville Museum of Art, Tennessee Theatre, and Bijou Theatre.
- Events and Festivals: Knox County hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including music festivals, food festivals, art fairs, and holiday events. Some popular events in Knox County include the Dogwood Arts Festival, Rhythm N’ Blooms Music Festival, and Knoxville International Biscuit Festival.
- Sports and Recreation Centers: Knox County has several sports and recreation centers that offer indoor recreational activities such as fitness classes, indoor swimming, basketball, and other sports. Some popular sports and recreation centers in Knox County include the Knoxville Community Centers, Knoxville Racquet Club, and YMCA locations.
- Golfing: Knox County has several golf courses for golf enthusiasts, including public and private courses. Some popular golf courses in Knox County include Holston Hills Country Club, Gettysvue Polo, Golf and Country Club, and Dead Horse Lake Golf Course.
