East Tennessee History Center: Discover Regional History
Did you know the East Tennessee Historical Society has a rich history over 175 years? They focus on saving the heritage of East Tennessee. Located in Knoxville, the East Tennessee History Center is a key spot for both visitors and locals. It offers a look into the complex history that shapes the area.
Since 1834, the East Tennessee Historical Society has managed the Center. Their mission is to link us with our past. By featuring intriguing exhibits, teaching workshops, and offering research tools, they make history come alive. Walking into the Center is like stepping back in time. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to know more about the roots of East Tennessee.
Key Takeaways
- The East Tennessee Historical Society has a legacy of over 175 years in recording stories and collecting artifacts.
- Located in downtown Knoxville, the East Tennessee History Center serves as a prime cultural attraction.
- The Center was established in 1834, aiming to preserve and promote East Tennessee’s historical narratives.
- It offers a personal connection to history through exhibitions, workshops, and research resources.
- The Center is a gateway to discovering the rich cultural and historical heritage of East Tennessee.
- Upcoming events include the Downtown Home Tour on June 8, genealogy research sessions, and educational workshops.
Introduction to the East Tennessee History Center
Right in downtown Knoxville’s heart, you’ll find the East Tennessee History Center. This place is full of our region’s stories and cultural gems. The East Tennessee Historical Society runs it. They work hard to keep our area’s history alive. It’s perfect for locals and travelers who want to dive into East Tennessee’s past.
A Brief Overview of the Center’s History
The East Tennessee Historical Society started in 1834. Since then, they’ve focused on sharing and valuing our local history. The Center houses tons of research, exciting exhibits, and educational activities. It’s a must-visit for those looking to learn more at a Knoxville museum.
Location and Hours of Operation
You can find the East Tennessee History Center at 601 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN. It’s easy to get to for everyone. The Center is open every day, with hours that fit most schedules. Below is a table of hours and how much it costs to visit:
| Day | Hours | Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Monday-Saturday | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Adults: $10, Seniors: $8, Children: Free |
| Sunday | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Free for all guests |
Make sure to check the Center’s website for any changes to hours or special holidays. The East Tennessee History Center hosts events and programs. It’s key for those eager to see how deep East Tennessee’s history goes.
Permanent Exhibits at the East Tennessee History Center
At the East Tennessee History Center, visitors find exhibits about the region’s past. They come to life through interactive displays and captivating stories. These permanent collections dive deep into the heritage of Knoxville and East Tennessee.
Voices of the Land: The People of East Tennessee
The “Voices of the Land: The People of East Tennessee” exhibit is a must-see. It’s in the Natalie L. Haslam Signature Gallery. Over two centuries of East Tennessee stories are explored here.
The exhibit is divided into five sections. It highlights people like Cherokee Chief John Ross and an Oak Ridge worker. You can see quotes from J. W. Gerard DeBrahm and Chief Old Tassel. The exhibit includes the Cherokee Creation Myth and Reverend Samuel Doak’s Prayer too.
History Headquarters
History Headquarters is great for families. It’s a hands-on space, open Tuesdays through Sundays. Kids can enjoy discovery boxes, photography timelines, and the Story Forest.
There’s also a display on Davy Crockett. It shows how his fame was both real and made-up. Schools visit on weekdays. The general public can come on weekends.
Knoxville’s Role in RegionalI History
The Center also looks at Knoxville’s impact on the region. It shows crucial moments in the city’s history. This helps show Knoxville’s place in East Tennessee’s growth.
“The rich stories and lasting legacies enshrined at the East Tennessee History Center are invaluable resources for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the region’s vibrant past.”
Special Events and Educational Programs
The East Tennessee History Center is a busy place for learning. It hosts special events and educational programs for everyone. These activities offer deep insights into East Tennessee’s history and culture.
Engaging Educational Workshops
The Center offers educational workshops for teachers, students, and families. Teachers learn about social studies and critical race theory. They get tools for classroom discussions. Families enjoy history lessons, building a love for regional heritage early on.
Downtown Home Tour
Discover Knoxville’s beauty with the historic house tour, known as the Downtown Home Tour. Participants see historic homes, learning each one’s unique story. The tour shows off architectural beauty and the lives of past inhabitants.
Discounted Admission Programs
The East Tennessee History Center makes sure everyone can visit. They offer museum discount programs like Museums for All. Blue Star Museums and Penny 4 Arts also make visits affordable or free for qualifying guests. These efforts help share history with more people.
| Program Name | Details | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Museums for All | Discounted admission for families receiving food assistance (SNAP) | EBT cardholders |
| Blue Star Museums | Free admission to active-duty military personnel and their families | Active-duty military families |
| Penny 4 Arts | Admission for children during designated weeks | Children and accompanying adults |
With educational workshops, historic house tours, and museum discount programs, there’s a lot to do. The East Tennessee History Center invites you to join these activities in June, July, and August 2024. They connect us with our rich history.
Research Opportunities and Resources
The East Tennessee History Center is a great place for genealogy research. It offers many resources for studying family history and the area’s past. Around 33% have filled out the Volunteer Interest Questionnaire. Support comes from volunteers in various roles, including collection research and education.
At the Center, you can find lots of historical documents about the region’s history. These are super important for genealogy work. You can also look at local history books to learn more about East Tennessee’s culture and history.
The Center holds special events for genealogy research on June 15, July 20, and August 31. These sessions offer tips on genealogy that are helpful for anyone. They make up a big part of the Center’s programs.
Lectures at the Center cover many topics, like preserving historical sites and stories. Another event, “Little History Lessons,” happens on July 1 and July 15. They’re designed for families to enjoy together.
The museum is open from Monday to Friday, 9 am – 4 pm, and Saturdays from 10 am – 4 pm. Sundays, it’s open from 1 pm – 5 pm. The ETHS office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 5 pm. This schedule helps researchers visit all week.
Teacher Workshops on June 22 and June 27 are for those looking to improve their skills. These workshops are good for professional development. They show the Center’s support for education and research.
Visitor Information: Planning Your Trip
Looking to visit the East Tennessee History Center? We’ve got you covered with everything you need. You’ll find info on ticket prices, parking, and what’s nearby. This guide makes planning your Knoxville trip easy and fun.
Ticket Prices and Membership Benefits
Experience history without spending a lot. The East Tennessee History Center has various ticket options:
| Category | Entry Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults | $10.00 |
| Seniors | $8.00 |
| Children (16 and under) | Free |
| Group Rate (10+ adults) | $6.00 per person |
We offer discounts like Museums for All and the Blue Star Museums program. Membership gets you free or reduced entry through PastPort and Explorer Pass.
Parking Information
Parking’s easy for our visitors. There’s handicap parking and plenty of city garages. Even free street parking at certain times. You won’t have trouble finding a spot.
Nearby Attractions and Accommodations
Located downtown, we’re close to other attractions and hotels. Explore more sights, eat out, or stay nearby. This guide helps you enjoy Knoxville to the fullest.
Conclusion
The East Tennessee History Center is a key place for finding out about the region’s past. It has lots of exhibits and programs that bring Eastern Tennessee’s history to life. Anyone looking to learn more about the area will find the Center’s mix of stories and history very rich.
“Voices of the Land: The People of East Tennessee” is one of many great exhibits you can see. The Center also has fun learning opportunities such as the National History Day competition. The 2024 East Tennessee Regional competition theme, “Turning Points in History,” lets people learn about important events that changed the region.
Going to the East Tennessee History Center is more than a learning trip; it’s a way to deeply connect with history. The Center offers specials like memberships and discounts to make it easy for everyone to visit. Students, teachers, historians, and anyone curious are welcomed. The Center encourages you to discover the amazing stories of this lively area.
