This area was first explored by the longhunters who came to hunt deer, buffalo and other game.  Hear stories about Bigfoot Spencer and the Bledsoes; learn how they managed to carve out a life while fighting Indians and the elements.  

Bledsoe's Fort and Mansker's Fort were established along the Avery Trace, the first road into the Tennessee frontier (then part of North Carolina), which connected forts from upper east Tennessee to Fort Nashboro (now Nashville) on the Cumberland River.  

As the men found land and brought their families to the frontier, they began to build their homes, businesses and plantations.  Some of the homes were stagecoach inns, one was a mineral spring resort, and others were commandeered by the Union as headquarters or hospitals during the Civil War. 

We are very fortunate to have nine of these historic homes dating from 1787 to 1860 which have been restored to their original splendor and are open for tours.  Some feature docents in period dress, others have special events such as re-enactments, festivals, and encampments.  See our events calendar for dates.  Click on the links at the right for more information about each home or site.