OUR HISTORY
HOW IT ALL BEGAN

The Town of Rogersville, the second oldest town in the state of Tennessee, continues to be a thriving community and marketplace as it has been for more than 200 years. At the heart of it is the Rogersville Historic District , containing many historically important buildings such as the Hale Springs Inn, the Hawkins County Courthouse, Overton Lodge No. 5, F. & A.M., and Rogersville Synodical College campus. Rogersville’s unique history, century old buildings, and museums contribute to a charming and sophisticated small town atmosphere.

Main Street in Rogersville is the perfect afternoon shopping experience – antiques, gift items, local and regional works of art, and great food amid the ambiance of a historic setting. A visit to Rogersville would not be complete without a stop at the Tennessee Newspaper & Printing Museum , or take a self-guided walking tour to discover Rogersville’s architecture and history.

The Rogersville Main Street Program has been designated as an accredited National Main Street Program for meeting the commercial district revitalization performance standards set by the National Trust Main Street Center. Each year, the National Trust and its partners announce the list of accredited Main Street programs that have built strong revitalization organizations and demonstrate their ability in using the Main Street Four-Point Approach methodology for strengthening their local economy and protecting their historic buildings.

Rogersville was settled in 1775 by the grandparents of Davy Crockett in what is today downtown Rogersville near Crocketts’ Spring. When the settlers were attacked by Native Americans, all but decimating the family, the Crocketts sold the property to Colonel Thomas Amis.

In 1780, Colonel Amis and John Carter built a fort near the outskirts of Rogersville and Amis built a stone house a few miles away, fortified against attacks. The next year he opened a store, a blacksmith shop, a distillery, a saw and grist-mill, and a tavern.

In 1785, the present day Rogersville area was, for a year, part of Spencer County in the (brief) State of Franklin. A year later, it was relinquished to to North Carolina, which proceeded to name the area part of Hawkins County.

Joseph RogersDuring this year, Joseph Rogers arrived in the area and stayed at a tavern adjacent to Colonel Amis’ home. He fell in love with the Colonel’s daughter, Mary Amis and they married on October 24, 1786, against Colonel Amis’ wishes. Amis later ceded the land he’d purchased from the Crocketts to Joseph Rogers. Rogers had established a tavern of his own around 1784-85 and became a successful businessman.

Rogers lobbied to have the county seat near his home and volunteered his tavern as the first county courthouse in 1787. He and other local settlers, laid out a plan for the town, and the town of Rogersville was chartered by the North Carolina General Assembly in 1789. The plan included a public square, deeded to the town government, which would host the town’s public well and the county courthouse.

“Rogers was the father of fourteen children with Mary. He died on November 6, 1833 at Rogersville, near the hour of midnight. He was buried in Rogers Cemetery, near the founding site of the Town. His wife Mary died a month later, the victim, according to legend, of a broken heart at the loss of her beloved Joseph.” –source Wikipedia

During the Civil War, the residents of Rogersville were divided in their loyalties and this diversity of opinion may have had something to do with why many of the original structures were spared. At various times, buildings were used by either side as Rogersville was the site of a battle for control of the town. It was occupied by the Federal forces but the Confederate army invaded the area and pushed the army across the Holston into Greene County. Confederates maintained control of the town until the end of the war.

Tennessee’s oldest courthouse, first newspaper, and first post office are each located in Rogersville. Much of the Town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s the second-oldest town in the state and is located in Hawkins County, East Tennessee.

Learn more about printing history at the Tennessee Newspaper and Printing Museum.

 

Community Response to Covid-19

When you’re ready to travel, we look forward to welcoming you with Tennessee’s famous, warm hospitality.

Health and safety is our No. 1 priority for Tennesseans and visitors alike. Many businesses – including restaurants, retail and most  attractions – are now open with safety measures in place to protect guests. For more information on the safety precautions businesses are encouraged to follow, please visit TNpledge.com.

There are currently no travel restrictions in Tennessee; however, there are health and safety practices everyone should  follow including: stay home when feeling ill, sanitize hands frequently, practice social distancing and wear a face mask. Please be aware that some cities and counties require face masks be worn in public.

Creating a Comfortable & Safe Experience in Our Businesses

Published Monday, October 5

Our number one priority continues to be the health and well-being of our patrons, employees, and the communities we serve.

As we navigate this unprecedented time together, we wanted to update you on the procedures we are implementing as we begin to safely reopen our businesses.

Incorporating the guidance of  local governments, and industry trade associations, our new procedures include:

  • • Health Checks: Our store associates are required to conduct health checks before every shift and must stay home if they are feeling unwell.
  • • Employee Training: All store associates will take training courses dedicated to COVID-19 safety protocols.
  • • Social Distancing: Our associates and guests must maintain at least 6 feet of distance between themselves and others.
  • • Cleaning & Disinfecting: High-touch surfaces will be disinfected after every use, and we will continue to conduct additional cleanings and provide hand sanitizer in all of our stores.
  • • Face Coverings: For everyone’s health and safety, face coverings are required for our employees and customers.

In select businesses, they are offering contactless shopping options, including virtual shopping services and curbside pickup.

VIRTUAL EXPERIENCES – Tap Here

By prioritizing safety, we are hopeful that together we can all make a difference.

Thank you for your loyalty, patience, and love of our community

Safely plan your next visit with us by taking our 360 virtual tours of  attractions, museums, parks and local small businesses in our communities. Many businesses offer curb-side pickup, private appointments and delivery for your convenience and comfort.

TAP HERE to Begin

Use our map  to safely chart your next trip to wonderful parks, museums, senior and family fun attractions. Tap Here to Begin