Alfred Eugene Jackson

Historical marker location:
Jonesborough, Tennessee
( Marker is on Oak Grove Avenue (State Road 81) north of West Main Street (State Road 81), on the right when traveling north.)

Loading...
The Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee, was originally built as a church in 1892. It later became one of the most famous music venues in the world and is often referred to as the "Mother Church of Country Music."
Washington County, Tennessee, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The area was once home to Native American tribes, particularly the Cherokee, who used the land for hunting and agriculture. In the late 1700s, European settlers began to arrive, with the region becoming a vital gateway to the frontier. In fact, Washington County was the first county to be established in the state in 1777.

During the Revolutionary War, the area played a significant role as a base for attacks against British forces. The county's courthouse, located in Jonesborough, witnessed the signing of the first constitutional government in the southwestern frontier, making it an important historical site. The county continued to grow and prosper throughout the 19th century, becoming a center for agriculture, commerce, and education.

One of the most notable events in Washington County's history occurred during the American Civil War. The county was divided between Union and Confederate sympathizers, leading to numerous skirmishes and raids. The Battle of Limestone College, fought in 1863, was a significant moment in the county's past as Union forces successfully repelled Confederate troops, ensuring control of the region.

In the years following the Civil War, Washington County experienced a period of economic growth driven by industrialization. Railroads were established, bringing coal and other resources to the region, and manufacturing flourished. The county became known for its production of textiles, and several mills were built along the rivers. Today, Washington County continues to thrive as a vibrant area that blends its rich history with modern amenities, attracting visitors from around the world.

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

  • 1777: Washington County, TN was established on March 26 as part of North Carolina.
  • 1780: The Battle of Kings Mountain occurred in what is now Washington County, Tennessee.
  • 1784: John Sevier, a prominent figure in the American Revolutionary War, became the county's first elected governor.
  • 1788: Jonesborough, the county seat, was founded as the first town in Tennessee.
  • 1796: Tennessee became the 16th state of the United States with Washington County remaining a part of it.
  • 1856: The completion of the Watauga Railroad boosted the local economy.
  • 1861: The American Civil War began, and Washington County experienced significant disruptions.
  • 1870: The East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad was completed, connecting the county to a wider transportation network.
  • 1911: East Tennessee State Normal School (now East Tennessee State University) was established in Johnson City.
  • 1942: The Tennessee Valley Authority's Boone Dam was completed, generating hydroelectric power and providing flood control.