Posted in Tennessee
May 05, 2016
Here Are The Oldest Towns In Tennessee… And They’re Loaded With History
Tennessee is a proud lil’ state, and for good reason. We have a lot of spunk, a ton of class and LOTS of character. We’re a southern state that gives you a good time, and our past is rooted in good American history – that’s why we’ve found some spots that have been there since the get-go.
We’ve found the 10 oldest incorporated towns in Tennessee. It’s necessary to pull from this date, as conflicting historical data and solid word-of-mouth can skew hard city data. So, we did it – we came down hard and found the oldest cities in the state, according to state data. Curious if your town made it? Take a look!

The gem of Williamson County, Franklin is a Nashville suburb with a cute downtown and a high price point. You've got to be making a pretty penny to make your home on these rolling, green hills.

Historically significant due to the Watauga Association, Transylvania Purchase and multiple battles fought in the immediate area, we're surprised it isn't higher up the list. With so much going on they needed to band together!

Known as the second oldest town in Tennessee by the prideful many (if we weren't going by incorporation date, it would be!), Dandridge is a huge draw for those looking to experience the beautiful reality of the Tennessee landscape and the kindness of the citizens.

Named for General George Rutledge, this is a teensy tiny town. With hardly more than 1,100 living within city limits, the town makes up with a whole lot of character.

There are less than 17,000 people that inhabit Springfield, located north of the capital city. Their historic downtown is darling, and surrounding land gorgeous.

Known for being the birthplace of Dolly Parton, Sevierville has made a name for itself with its position as one of our oldest towns and solid hot spot for tourists.

Here we have a shot of the skyline, with beautiful Greenbelt Park in the foreground. This darling town is very close to all popular east Tennessee tourist spots, like Dollywood and Gatlinburg.

Named after war hero Nathanael Greene, this is the only town in the US called "Greeneville" that spells it with an "e" right there in the middle. It was also the capital of the State of Franklin, short-lived as it was.

This big city to the east has come to be known for its fantastic college, granola crunching population and proximity to the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains.

Jonesborough is loud and proud when it comes to being the oldest town in Tennessee. It was founded 17 years before statehood, and was actually named after a North Carolina legislator, Willie Jones. They host the wildly popular National Storytelling Festival as well as Jonesborough Days.
Where’s your favorite town? Do you feel we missed your proud hometown? We want to hear from you! Let us know below.