These are the “Dog Days” in East Tennessee, days made for a dip in the backyard or community pool. Some fortunate folks will cruise the lake in their boats or …
A true Volunteer: Knoxville Dragoon Benjamin Franklin Prater
“Whoa! Hold on, men! I think we need to cut ourselves loose. The water is too high and the shoals too rough. We will need to proceed to New Orleans …
Goat Man leaves the scent of legend
It would usually happen in the late summer or early fall. The warm weather meant that the children of East Tennessee were usually still barefoot and school had not begun.
Normally, …
Farragut built on farming, close community
As you make your way west on Kingston Pike, imagine the sight of acres and acres of beautiful rolling farmland. Imagine no big-box stores or fast-food restaurants. Imagine driving for …
Cynthia Gambill Smith: driven by a mother’s instincts
Much has been said and written of the strong-willed and strong-minded women of early East Tennessee. As such was Cynthia Elvira Gambill Smith (1819-1904).
Cynthia was accustomed to a good life. …
James Monroe Smith: patriarch of a house divided
A casual stroll through the Concord Masonic Cemetery will bring many family names to mind with an occasional smile or two. Not so the case with the family of James …
Progress has taken toll on historic Callaway’s Landing
Hundreds of drivers pass daily on their way to and from work or on errands, unaware of the history of a piece of land on both sides of the southern …