National Register Listings in
Washington County, Tennessee

Aquone Bashor Mill Brown Farm Broyles, Adam Alexander, House Broylesville Historic District Carolina, Clinchfield & Ohio Railroad Station and Depot Cooper, Isaac, House DeVault Tavern DeVault, Valentine, House Dungan's Mill and Stone House Embree House Gillespie, Col. George, House Hammer, Isaac, House Hoss, Henry, House Johnson City Commercial Historic District Johnson City Country Club Johnson City Postal Savings Bank and Post Office Johnson City Warehouse and Commerce Historic District Johnson City Warehouse and Commerce Historic District (Boundary Decrease) Jonesborough Historic District Kitzmiller, Martin, House Knob Creek Historic District Montrose Court Apartments Mountain Branch, National Home For Disabled Volunteer Soldiers Range, Peter, Stone House Robin's Roost Salem Presbyterian Church Shelbridge St. Paul AME Zion Church Sulphur Springs Methodist Campground Telford, Thomas, House Thankful Baptist Church Tipton-Haynes House Tree Streets Historic District Washington College Historic District
The first known protest against British taxation in America occurred in Tennessee in 1768, more than a decade before the famous Boston Tea Party. A group of settlers in the Watauga Association signed a petition protesting the British government's attempt to impose taxes on them without their consent.
Tennessee random facts
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 glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped 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.