Following the Revolutionary War Americans turned more of their attention westward. Less than 10 years after American's declared their independence, settlements began popping all over places like East Tennessee.
Dandridge has the distinction of being Tennessee's second oldest city. (Jonesborough claims the title of oldest.) The seat of Jefferson County bears the maiden name of George Washington's wife, Martha, America's first First Lady.
A visit to Downtown Dandridge brings you a sense of a different time and place. The National Historic District is only a few blocks in size, but don't let that fool you. There are plenty of big surprises.
One of the first things you'll notice is how well this part of town has been preserved. From the quaint Jefferson County Courthouse (circa 1845) to the bright yellow building housing "The Maxwell House Emporium (circa 1882)," the small town feeling you get in Dandridge wraps you up and holds on to your attention in a cozy way.
You'll find an eclectic mix of stores, restaurants and businesses here. One of the most well known is Tinsley-Bible Drugs. This full service store includes an old-fashioned Soda Fountain in addition to its pharmaceutical services.
Just a couple of doors down from the Drug Store and across the street, you'll find more information about a Christmas Eve Battle in the Civil War in 1863. Around the corner you'll find a quaint cemetery located on the site of the town's original churches. Many of the graves are those of Revolutionary War veterans.
Perhaps the biggest surprise you will find in Dandridge is a large earthen dam looming in the background. Believe it or not, this historic town was nearly relegated to history books when TVA dammed the waters of the French Broad River to create Douglas Lake. Pleas to save Dandridge worked, a dike was built and the entire downtown was saved for future generations to enjoy.
At the top of the dike you'll find a spectacular view of Douglas Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains. This a popular fishing spot as well as a great place to sit and watch many a boat cruise under the big green bridge linking Downtown to a full service restaurant and marina on the opposite shore.
Dandridge never became a big town, but this river outpost first settled in 1783 holds a special place in the history books and is certain to be a great addition to your summer travel scrapbooks. Downtown Dandridge is located just a few miles off I-40, following TN92 or US 25-W.
Knoxville Day Trips Examiner
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