General Sam Houston

Historical marker location:
3650 Old Sam Houston School Road, Maryville, Tennessee
( Marker is on Old Sam Houston School Road.)
Marker installed: 2006

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The first known protest against British taxation in America occurred in Tennessee in 1768, more than a decade before the famous Boston Tea Party. A group of settlers in the Watauga Association signed a petition protesting the British government's attempt to impose taxes on them without their consent.
Blount County, located in eastern Tennessee, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. Prior to European settlement, the area was inhabited by the Cherokee people, who called it "Tanasi." In the late 18th century, European settlers began arriving in the region, and the county was formed in 1795, named after Governor William Blount.

During the early years of its establishment, Blount County played a significant role in the expansion and development of Tennessee. It became a crucial center for trade and commerce, thanks to its location along important trade routes like the Old Federal Road and the Tennessee River. The county also played a role in the War of 1812, with significant military activity taking place near present-day Maryville.

In the mid-19th century, Blount County experienced growth and prosperity, with the implementation of the East Tennessee and Georgia Railroad. This allowed for increased access to markets and furthered the agricultural and industrial development of the county. The town of Maryville, the county seat, became a hub for commerce, education, and culture.

Blount County's history is also intertwined with the Civil War. While the county remained predominantly pro-Union during the war, it saw significant military action due to its strategic location. Battle of Maryville and Battle of Campbell's Station were fought within its borders. After the war, Blount County saw a period of rebuilding and recovery, and today it remains a thriving hub of industry, education, and natural beauty.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Blount County, Tennessee.

  • 1795 - Blount County, TN is established
  • 1801 - The town of Maryville is established as the county seat
  • 1818 - The Hiwassee Purchase Treaty opens up the area for settlement
  • 1820 - The Old Stone Presbyterian Church is built in Maryville
  • 1825 - The Little Tennessee River Navigation Company is chartered to improve transportation
  • 1833 - The county courthouse is constructed in Maryville
  • 1857 - The Knoxville and Charleston Railroad reaches Maryville
  • 1861-1865 - Blount County suffers from the American Civil War
  • 1870 - The Knoxville and Ohio Railroad is completed in the county
  • 1933 - The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is established, partly in Blount County
  • 1942-1945 - The nearby Alcoa aluminum plant plays a key role in World War II
  • 1982 - The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center is founded in Townsend