Bean Station

Historical marker location:
Bean Station, Tennessee
( Marker is on Bean Station Cemetery Road south of Old Lee Hwy (US 11W), on the left when traveling south.)
Marker installed: 1929

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The famous frontiersman Davy Crockett served as a U.S. congressman from Tennessee from 1827 to 1835. He became a national celebrity during this time, known for his colorful personality and frontier wisdom.
Grainger County, Tennessee has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The region was once inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, who relied on the waters of the Clinch River for sustenance. European settlers arrived in the late 1700s, led by pioneers like Henry Grainger and Joseph Black. The county itself was established in 1796 as part of the new state of Tennessee.

Throughout the early 19th century, Grainger County experienced a period of growth and development. Agriculture became the dominant industry, with crops like tobacco, corn, and wheat being cultivated by local farmers. The county seat, Rutledge, was incorporated in 1802 and became an important center for trade and commerce in the region.

During the 1860s, Grainger County, like many areas in the South, was greatly impacted by the American Civil War. The county saw its fair share of battles and skirmishes as Union and Confederate forces vied for control over strategic locations and resources. After the war, the county faced a period of reconstruction and rebuilding.

In the 20th century, Grainger County continued to evolve. The construction of Norris Dam in the 1930s brought new opportunities for hydroelectric power and recreation on the nearby Norris Lake. Today, Grainger County remains largely rural, with a strong agricultural presence and a close-knit community. The county is known for its scenic beauty, historic sites, and annual events like the Grainger County Tomato Festival, which celebrates the area's agricultural heritage.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Grainger County, Tennessee.

  • 1796 - Grainger County is established by an act of the Tennessee General Assembly.
  • 1801 - The county seat is established in a settlement known as Rutledge.
  • 1839 - The county courthouse is built in Rutledge.
  • 1861-1865 - Grainger County is deeply divided during the American Civil War.
  • 1870s - A railroad line is built in the county, leading to economic development.
  • 1919 - The Grainger County Tomato Club, the precursor to the 4-H Club, is established.
  • 1924 - The famous Grainger County Tomato Festival begins.
  • 1933 - A dam is constructed on the Clinch River, creating Cherokee Lake.
  • 1990s - Grainger County experiences population growth and increased tourism.
  • 2002 - The Grainger County Tomato is designated as the official state vegetable of Tennessee.