Marble Springs State Historic Site will debut Rhythm of the Springs: An Appalachian Music Festival, on Saturday, October 7, 2023, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. The day promises exceptional music, community spirit and family fun. Best of all, admission is free.
The festival will feature a diverse lineup of local talent representing Appalachian musical genres, including bluegrass, folk and rock. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own seating. Food trucks, engaging activities and historical experiences will be available, providing a well-rounded celebration of Appalachian culture. The main event will be the five exceptional bands on the front porch stage:
- Mojo Circus
- Kaleb Mullins and the Witness
- Sparky and Rhonda Rucker
- Haunted Like Human
- The Bearded
Marble Springs State Historic Site is located at 1220 West Governor John Sevier Highway, in south Knoxville. Info: www.marblesprings.net.
A mountain woman prepares a pie for baking
It is the last home and farm of John Sevier, Tennessee’s first governor, who was elected in 1796. Sevier served six terms as Tennessee governor in Knoxville, the state’s first capital city. He also acted as the first and only governor of the short-lived State of Franklin. Sevier was a congressman from the Eastern District for four terms, a high-ranking officer in the North Carolina militia and a hero at the 1780 battle of Kings Mountain against the British. Farmer, trader, land speculator, soldier, politician, husband, and father of 18 children, John Sevier embodied the pioneer spirit of the day.
Named for its picturesque and soothing springs and the Tennessee “pink marble” quarried nearby, the site features a period tavern, kitchen, cabin, loom house and spring house that help interpret Tennessee’s early frontier history. You can enjoy touring the historic structures, walking on beautiful nature trails, and picnicking under the site’s pavilion. Visit the Trading Post gift shop for unique memorabilia and locally made gifts.
Marble Springs is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, notable for its connection to John Sevier and its early Tennessee architecture. It is a certified wildlife habitat and has served as a significant educational resource for thousands of area school children for more than 50 years. Marble Springs is the recipient of an Award of Excellence and Commendation from the Tennessee Association of Museums.
Danielle Sherrell of Marble Springs contributed information for this article.