In 1673 the first Englishmen to explore what became Johnson County, Tennessee were James Needham and Gabriel Arthur who had been hired to explore the western frontier and establish a trading post with the Cherokee Indians. This route over a well-worn Indian trail through the gap in the mountains was also followed by Peter Jefferson, father of Thomas, when he led a survey party in 1749 to establish the boundary lines between North Carolina and Virginia. It was also followed by Daniel Boone in 1789 when he crossed the Appalachian Mountains on his way to Kentucky.

Johnson County was originally part of Carter County, but by 1820 residents of present-day Johnson County were tired of driving 40 miles to the county seat in Elizabethton and petitioned the state legislature to become a separate county. After a 16-year struggle, Johnson County was formed in 1836 with the county seat called Taylorsville. By 1885 it was changed to Mountain City as it is the highest incorporated town in Tennessee.

The area grew with the “ Tweetsie” Railroad called that by the sound the engine’s whistle made when bringing mail and timber out of the hardwood forests, and new residents in. These residents built homes and farms along Roan Creek (named after Daniel Boone’s favorite horse), along Doe Creek (Daniel Boone shot and killed a doe and so named the area after it), the Watauga River and deep in the “hollers” between the mountains where many a pint of moonshine was made – and perhaps still is.

During your Appalachian Mountain vacation, we invite you to come discover the rich history and heritage of communities such as Butler, Shady Valley, Laurel Bloomery and Neva. Come sit awhile in one of our wonderful restaurants or old time country stores and experience our good food and friendly hospitality. Johnson County – it’s your home away from home in East TN.