John Crockett: Frontier Ranger

Historical marker location:
2002 Morningside Drive, Morristown, Tennessee
( Marker is on Morningside Drive, on the right when traveling east.)

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Tennessee is home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. The park covers over 500,000 acres and attracts millions of visitors each year.
Hamblen County, located in eastern Tennessee, has a rich history dating back to the early Native American inhabitants of the region. Before European settlement, the area was home to the Cherokee people, who had a significant presence in the region for centuries. The first recorded European explorers to visit the area were likely Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century.

The County was officially established in 1870 and was named after Hezekiah Hamblen, a prominent politician and lawyer. The early years of Hamblen County saw the development of small farming communities, with agriculture being the main economic driver. The completion of the railroad in the late 19th century facilitated the growth of the local economy and allowed for easier transportation of goods.

In the early 20th century, Hamblen County experienced significant industrial growth with the establishment of several factories and manufacturing plants. This led to an increase in population and boosted the local economy. The county became known for its textile mills, furniture manufacturing, and garment industry.

In more recent years, Hamblen County has diversified its economy, with a focus on healthcare, education, and tourism. The county is home to Morristown, its largest city, which serves as a regional hub for commerce and services. Hamblen County also boasts beautiful natural attractions, including Cherokee Lake and the Panther Creek State Park, which draw visitors from near and far. Overall, the history of Hamblen County reflects a transformation from an agricultural community to a thriving industrial and commercial center.

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

  • 1801: Hamblen County officially established as part of the Territory South of the River Ohio.
  • 1804: The first courthouse in Hamblen County is built.
  • 1807: The county's first settlers begin to arrive, primarily of Scotch-Irish descent.
  • 1850: Morristown, the county seat, is incorporated as a town.
  • 1861-1865: Hamblen County residents participate in the American Civil War, with some serving in the Confederate Army and others in the Union Army.
  • 1870: Hamblen County's population stands at 3,711, according to the U.S. Census.
  • 1872: The first railroad, the East Tennessee, Virginia and Georgia Railway, is completed in Hamblen County.
  • 1907: The City of Morristown is officially incorporated.
  • 1917-1919: Hamblen County residents contribute to World War I efforts through various means, including enlisting in the military and aiding in war-related industries.
  • 1929-1939: The Great Depression hits Hamblen County hard, resulting in economic hardship for many residents.
  • 1941-1945: Numerous Hamblen County residents serve in World War II, both in the military and on the home front supporting the war effort.
  • 1949: The opening of the Cherokee Dam on the Holston River helps spur economic development and provides recreational opportunities.
  • 1959: Morristown-Hamblen Hospital opens, providing improved healthcare services to residents.
  • 1987: Walters State Community College opens its Morristown campus, providing higher education opportunities to local students.
  • 2021: Hamblen County's population reaches approximately 65,000 residents, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.