National Register Listings in Unicoi County, Tennessee
Tennessee was the last state to secede from the Union during the Civil War. It joined the Confederacy in June 1861, but a significant portion of its population remained loyal to the Union, leading to a bitter and divided conflict within the state.
About Unicoi County
Unicoi County Timeline
Unicoi County, Tennessee has a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Cherokee and the Shawnee. European settlers began to arrive in the late 1700s, and by the early 1800s, the region had become an important stop along the Great Indian Warpath.
The county was officially established in 1875 and was named after the Unicoi Turnpike, a major trade route that once ran through the area. The town of Erwin, which is now the county seat, was incorporated in 1879 and quickly grew as a result of the booming railroad industry.
Throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s, Unicoi County experienced a period of economic prosperity due to its natural resources. Timber and minerals, such as coal and iron ore, were abundant in the area and provided employment opportunities for many residents. The Carolina, Clinchfield and Ohio Railway, which ran through the county, further contributed to the region's growth.
In more recent years, Unicoi County has focused on promoting its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. The county is home to the Cherokee National Forest, which attracts visitors with its hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic views. The Nolichucky River also offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and rafting. In addition, the county hosts an annual Apple Festival, celebrating the area's agricultural heritage.
Overall, Unicoi County, TN has a diverse history that reflects its Native American roots, early European settlement, industrial boom, and modern-day focus on nature tourism and community events.
The county was officially established in 1875 and was named after the Unicoi Turnpike, a major trade route that once ran through the area. The town of Erwin, which is now the county seat, was incorporated in 1879 and quickly grew as a result of the booming railroad industry.
Throughout the late 1800s and early 1900s, Unicoi County experienced a period of economic prosperity due to its natural resources. Timber and minerals, such as coal and iron ore, were abundant in the area and provided employment opportunities for many residents. The Carolina, Clinchfield and Ohio Railway, which ran through the county, further contributed to the region's growth.
In more recent years, Unicoi County has focused on promoting its natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. The county is home to the Cherokee National Forest, which attracts visitors with its hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic views. The Nolichucky River also offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and rafting. In addition, the county hosts an annual Apple Festival, celebrating the area's agricultural heritage.
Overall, Unicoi County, TN has a diverse history that reflects its Native American roots, early European settlement, industrial boom, and modern-day focus on nature tourism and community events.
Unicoi County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Unicoi County, Tennessee.
- 1796: Unicoi County is established as part of the Southwest Territory
- 1799: The county is named after the Unaka Mountains
- 1852: The town of Erwin is incorporated
- 1861-1865: Unicoi County residents fight for both the Union and the Confederacy in the Civil War
- 1875: The Clinchfield Railroad reaches Erwin, bringing economic growth
- 1881: The town of Unicoi is incorporated
- 1911: A major flood causes extensive damage to Unicoi County
- 1929: Erwin becomes a major center for the production of rayon
- 1932: The Erwin National Fish Hatchery is established
- 1978: The Clinchfield No. 1 locomotive is designated a National Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark
- 1985: Unicoi County celebrates its bicentennial
- 2007: Nuclear Fuel Services announces plans to build a new facility in Erwin