The Oldest Town In Tennessee That Everyone Should Visit At Least Once
×
Meghan Kraft
Author
The town of Jonesborough, Tennessee is wildly proud of its title as the “Oldest Town in Tennessee.” Founded in 1779, the sweet spot pre-dates statehood by almost 20 years, giving residents quite a bit to be excited about. The town continues their legacy as the original Tennesseans on an annual basis, and melds its history with stunning beauty and kind people.
Historically known as "Jonesboro," the county seat of Washington County sits pretty at 5,975 folks as of 2010.
Built in 1912, the Washington County Courthouse was the seventh built in the county.
The town was founded when this part of eastern Tennessee was still considered North Carolina, by legislator Willie Jones who was looking to expand beyond the Appalachian mountains.
Popular amongst tourists, the east Tennessee town does its part to keep folks comin'. They host the National Storytelling Festival the first full weekend of October, and here you can see a shot of the Jonesborough Days Parade.
The Jonesborough Historic District has been on the Registrar of Historic Places since the late '60s, and remains one of the most picturesque parts of the city.
The ghost of Andrew Jackson is supposed to haunt their historic cabin, located in a public park. Jackson stayed in Jonesborough for a couple of months and after the cabin was moved from its original spot to the park, some say they've seen his ghost entering.
The town museum honors their tobacco farming heritage and also depicts life the way it used to be, when Tennessee was much younger.
Their courthouse is a stunning, a extensively photographed, bit of east Tennessee beauty. Interesting fact: the clock in the tower was from the original town clock tower.
If you're looking for a sweet place to visit, a town full of kindness and history, the oldest town in Tennessee most definitely fits the bill.
Have you ever made a visit to Jonesborough? Tell us your favorite part below!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.