Greene County, Tennessee

Address by President Lincoln An Early Home Andrew Johnson Andrew Johnson Andrew Johnson Andrew Johnson Andrew Johnson and Eliza Johnson Grave Marker Andrew Johnson and Family Andrew Johnson Homestead Andrew Johnson National Cemetery Andrew Johnson National Historic Site Andrew Johnson National Historic Site Austin Company Baileyton / Oakland Seminary Battle of Blue Springs Battles of Blue Springs Benjamin Lundy Blue Springs Church and Cemetery Blue Springs Lutheran Congregation Bridge Burners Bridge Burners Monument Bright Hope Industries Cabin of Three States Capitol of State of Franklin Carter's Station Classic American La France Death of Gen. John Hunt Morgan Death of John Morgan Dickson - Williams Mansion Ebenezer Edward Chalmers Huffaker Ellen “Nelly” VanVactor Execution of the "Bridge-Burners" First Institution of Higher Learning West of the Allegheny Mountains First Presbyterian Church General Morgan Inn George Clem School Governor John Sevier Greene County / Hawkins County Greene County Civil War Greeneville Cumberland Presbyterian Church Greeneville Union Convention Greeneville, Tennessee Greeneville, Tennessee Greenville Cumberland Presbyterian Church Harmony House Henderson’s Station Historic Roaring Spring Home of Andrew Johnson James H. Quillen United States Courthouse John Gloucester John H. Morgan Magnavox Margaret Johnson Patterson Bartlett / Andrew Johnson McKee Street "Flagship of Greeneville Mayoralty" Old Harmony Graveyard Olde Greene County Gaol Opera House Pottertown Bridge Burners Preserving the President’s Legacy Robert Kerr Roll of Honor – Greene County Sally Bohannon Samuel Doak House Sgt. Elbert L. Kinser The Band Perry The Big Spring The Dickson - Williams Mansion The Heart of the Household The Home of the 17th President The Homestead Grounds The Old Brick Church Tusculum College Tusculum College Unionist Stronghold Valentine Sevier Home Veterans Memorial Virginia Hall 1901 Winter Headquarters "I Have Wrestled With Poverty"
Greene County, located in eastern Tennessee, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 18th century. The region was originally inhabited by Cherokee Native Americans until European settlers began to arrive in the mid-1700s. In 1783, Greene County was established and named after Revolutionary War General Nathanael Greene.

During the American Civil War, Greene County played a significant role, witnessing several battles and skirmishes. It was divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers, leading to tensions and conflicts. The Battle of Blue Springs, fought in 1863, was one of the most significant engagements in the area, as Union forces sought to gain control of the strategic railroad line.

Following the war, Greene County experienced a period of reconstruction and growth. The completion of the railroad in the late 19th century facilitated trade and industrial development. Agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, became a vital part of the local economy. The county also saw the rise of coal mining, which brought prosperity and job opportunities.

In the 20th century, Greene County underwent further changes as technology advanced. The establishment of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) in the 1930s brought electricity to rural areas and stimulated economic development. The construction of Douglas Lake in the 1940s further transformed the region, providing a recreational hub for boating, fishing, and tourism.

Today, Greene County continues to thrive with a mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. With its beautiful natural landscapes, historical sites, and a strong sense of community, Greene County remains a place of both historical significance and modern growth.
Brief timeline of the history of Greene County, Tennessee:

  • 1783: Greene County is established in the State of Franklin, one of the earliest attempts at creating a separate territory from North Carolina.
  • 1785: The State of Franklin collapses, and Greene County becomes part of the Southwest Territory.
  • 1796: Tennessee becomes a state, and Greene County is incorporated within its boundaries.
  • 1810: The county seat is established in the town of Greeneville.
  • 1811: Battle of Huffs Ferry takes place during the War of 1812 in present-day Greene County.
  • 1825: The Andrew Johnson Homestead, the birthplace and family home of the future U.S. President, is constructed in Greeneville.
  • 1861: The Civil War begins, and Greene County sees significant military activity as Union and Confederate forces vie for control.
  • 1864: The Battle of Blue Springs is fought in Greene County, resulting in a Union victory and securing East Tennessee for the Union Army.
  • 1904: The Carnegie Library is established in Greeneville, providing educational resources to the community.
  • 1941: The Greeneville Army Air Base is constructed during World War II, serving as a training facility for bomber crews.
  • 1982: The Greene County Partnership is established as an economic development organization, promoting business growth in the county.

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

Audiobooks about the history of Tennessee.