Tennessee's Oldest Town Is a Gem and Used to Be in North Carolina

If you're heading toward the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge/Sevierville area, as countless millions have done, and you make the wrong left turn, you might end up in Tennessee's oldest town. But don't make that U-turn too fast, because you won't regret it.

Located on U.S. 321 just this side of Johnson City TN, Jonesborough was founded in 1779 by European Americans when it was still under North Carolina's jurisdiction. It would be 17 years before Tennessee would officially become our 16th state in 1796.

In the interim, however, there was an unusual occurrence. Delegates from Jonesborough and surrounding areas felt underrepresented and formed the State of Franklin (named for Benjamin Franklin). It operated as the 14th state, was never recognized as such by Congress, and went back under North Carolina's jurisdiction in 1788.

Today, Jonesborough is quietly a popular northeast Tennessee attraction. What's more, the ENTIRE downtown area won't be going anywhere anytime soon...uh, I mean EVER. That's because all of downtown Jonesborough--every one of its structures--is on the National Register of Historic Places. And the movers and shakers in this town know how to please the people and attract the tourists; the calendar never seems to rest.

In fact, they are so proud of this beautiful and historic town of just over 6,000 that a camera is constantly showing the world what's happening downtown.

I can see why this entire downtown area is safely on the historic register; every building looks like it must have looked two centuries ago. And if you've never been and need a little guidance, here you go:

I realize that the towns in the Smoky Mountains are the biggest attractions in east Tennessee, but should you find yourself with an extra day, take a little drive up to Jonesborough and soak up the history.

You know...party like it's 1799.