Union County, TN FAQs
What is the history of Union County, TN and what are its notable landmarks?
- located in northeastern Tennessee, United States
- formed in 1850 from portions of Grainger, Claiborne, Campbell, Anderson, and Knox counties
- named for the concept of unity, which was popular at the time of its formation
- The county seat is Maynardville, which was named for Horace Maynard, a prominent attorney, judge, and politician from East Tennessee.
- Union County played a significant role in the Civil War, as it was strategically located along the Clinch River, which was a major transportation artery for the Confederacy
- The county was the site of several skirmishes and raids during the war, including the Battle of Big Creek, which took place in December 1863.
Notable Landmarks:
- The Union County Courthouse
- built in 1936 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places
- located in downtown Maynardville and is a fine example of Art Deco architecture.
- Big Ridge State Park
- This 3,687-acre park is located on the shore of Norris Lake
- a popular destination for hiking, fishing, boating, and camping
- also contains several historic structures, including the Norton Gristmill, which was built in 1825 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places
- The Luttrell Bluff Overlook: This scenic overlook is located on the eastern edge of Union County and offers spectacular views of the Tennessee River and the surrounding countryside.
- The Dr. John Rice Irwin Museum: This museum is located in Norris and contains a collection of Appalachian artifacts, including tools, furniture, and clothing. Dr. Irwin, who founded the museum, was a renowned historian and author who dedicated his life to preserving the cultural heritage of the Appalachian region.
- The Wilson-Crossroads Cemetery: This historic cemetery is located in Sharps Chapel and contains the graves of several early settlers and prominent citizens of Union County. The cemetery is also the site of a Confederate memorial and is a popular destination for genealogical research.
What are the recreational activities available in Union County, TN?
- Big Ridge State Park:
- This 3,687-acre park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, camping, and wildlife watching
- has several hiking trails, including the popular Big Valley Trail, which offers scenic views of the park and Norris Lake
- Norris Lake
- a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports
- covers over 34,000 acres and has over 800 miles of shoreline, making it a great place to explore
- Chuck Swan Wildlife Management Area
- this 24,444-acre wildlife management area offers a range of outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching
- The area has over 30 miles of trails and several lakes and streams
- Local Festivals
- Union County hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Union County Heritage Festival in October, which celebrates the county’s history and culture. The festival includes live music, food vendors, and craft booths.
- Golf Courses
- There are several golf courses in Union County, including the Greens at Deerfield, which is an 18-hole championship course that offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains
- ATV Trails
- Union County has several ATV trails, including the Windrock Park ATV Trails, which cover over 72,000 acres and offer a range of trails for all skill levels
- The park also has camping facilities and cabins for overnight stays