Are you a history buff? Today, we’re going to explore the eclectic and downright peculiar past of Knox County, TN. Forget what you learned in school; this is the offbeat and often overlooked history that gives Knox County its distinct charm.
**1. The Marble City
Knoxville is often nicknamed the “Marble City,” and no, it’s not because everyone is particularly smooth. Turns out, Knoxville supplied the marble for the construction of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. So, every time you visit the capital, you’re basically stepping on a piece of Knox County history.
**2. The Battle of Fort Sanders (1863)
Did you know that in the heart of Knoxville, there was once a Civil War battleground? The Battle of Fort Sanders, fought in 1863, is a story of strategy, struggle, and a quirky detail – Union soldiers, anticipating the attack, threw sharpened wooden stakes into the ground to repel Confederate forces. It’s like the 19th-century version of a military booby trap!
**3. Tales from the “Hangin’ Mule”
Ever heard of the “Hangin’ Mule Bridge”? Legend has it that a mule thief met his fate here, hanging from the bridge as a warning to other would-be rustlers. While it may sound like a Wild West tale, it’s Knox County’s very own slice of vigilante justice.
**4. Peter Kern and the Sundae
You scream, I scream, we all scream for… the ice cream sundae! Knox County has a sweet claim to fame in the sundae’s history. Peter Kern, a local pharmacist, is said to have created the first-ever ice cream sundae right here in Knoxville. So, next time you indulge in this classic treat, remember to tip your hat to Peter.
**5. Haunted Henley Street
Brace yourselves, ghost enthusiasts. Henley Street Bridge has a spooky reputation. Legend has it that workers who perished during its construction still linger around, making it a must-visit for those seeking a touch of the paranormal.
Knox County’s history is a wild ride, filled with twists, turns, and a fair share of peculiar tales. So, the next time you stroll down Gay Street or enjoy a scoop of ice cream, remember you’re walking in the footsteps of marble miners, Civil War soldiers, and sundae pioneers. Happy time traveling!
Tere Sells Homes 