Unionists Within the Confederacy

Sevier County, Tennessee, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, such as the Cherokee, who established settlements along the banks of the Little Pigeon River. European explorers, including Spanish and French expeditions, first encountered the region in the 16th and 17th centuries.

In the late 18th century, settlers from the eastern United States began to migrate to the area, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. John Sevier, a Revolutionary War hero, played a significant role in the early development of the county. He served as the first governor of Tennessee and the county's namesake.

Sevier County saw rapid growth and development in the 19th century, driven by industries such as farming, logging, and mining. The establishment of the Little River Lumber Company in the early 1900s led to the logging boom, and the town of Townsend became a hub of timber activity. However, the devastating effects of deforestation and overlogging led to the decline of the timber industry in the mid-20th century.

The late 20th century saw the rise of tourism as the main industry in Sevier County. The opening of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1934 attracted visitors from all over the country, and the construction of the Gatlinburg Sky Lift and Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort further increased tourism in the area. Today, Sevier County is known as a popular vacation destination, offering outdoor recreation, scenic beauty, and attractions such as Dollywood, owned by country music star Dolly Parton.