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From the 16th through the 19th century, Tennessee saw significant European exploration and influence, starting with Spanish expeditions by Hernando de Soto and Juan Pardo who established temporary forts and interacted with indigenous tribes. By the 18th century, English and French explorers further settled the region, engaging in trade, warfare, and treaties.

The tragic displacement of the Cherokee culminated in the Trail of Tears during the 19th century. Early settlers and treaties indeed shaped Tennessee’s development, influencing the state’s political landscape and native relations through periods of war and peace, culminating in statehood. To this day, this European heritage can be sensed in the historical streets of Tennessee's small towns like Gatlinburg and Franklin.

Jonesborough

Jonesborough is Tennessee’s oldest town, established in 1779. It is notable for its fantastic downtown area which captures its historical essence, primarily through structures that have stood since the 18th century. The town's origin as a hub of storytelling is celebrated annually at the National Storytelling Festival, hosted by the International Storytelling Center.

Key attractions in Jonesborough include the Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum, which offers insights into the town's past through original documents and furnishings. For dining, visitors can go to the Main Street Café, known for its local cuisine served in a historic setting. The Jonesborough Repertory Theatre presents various live performances year-round, contributing to the town's cultural scene.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, located in the Great Smoky Mountains, was established in the 1800s and originally known as White Oak Flats. Its transformation into a tourist destination began with the establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1934, which borders the town. Gatlinburg’s proximity to natural wonders and its development of mountain resort facilities set it apart and gave it its distinct European flair.

Visitors to Gatlinburg can explore the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park, which offers skiing, snowboarding, and an aerial tramway with views of the surrounding mountains. The Gatlinburg Space Needle provides a panoramic view of the Smokies. The Peddler Steakhouse offers meals with a local flavor, and the local crafts community is showcased at the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, an 8-mile loop featuring independent artisans. Lastly, The Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is another major attraction, featuring extensive marine exhibits.

Franklin

Franklin, founded in 1799, is rich in Civil War history, notably the site of the Battle of Franklin in 1864. This historic event is central to the town's identity, with preserved battlefields and restored homes. Franklin’s dedication to preserving its history mirrors the European practice of maintaining and honoring historic sites.

Notable locations in Franklin include the Carter House and Carnton, both serving as field hospitals during the Civil War and now museums. The Downtown Franklin Historic District features restored buildings and local businesses. For dining, Gray's on Main offers locally sourced dishes in a historic pharmacy building. The Franklin Theatre, originally opened in 1937, now hosts live music and movies, providing cultural entertainment. For outdoor activities, Pinkerton Park offers walking trails and scenic views. These attractions provide a comprehensive look into Franklin’s nmix of historical preservation and modern community life, creating a vibrant atmosphere reminiscent of European towns.

Bell Buckle

Bell Buckle was established in the late 19th century and is a small town known for its Victorian architecture and affiliation with the Webb School, a prestigious private preparatory academy founded in 1870. The town’s name, derived from the bell and buckle on a found mule’s harness, adds a quirky historical anecdote that underscores its unique origins.

In Bell Buckle, visitors can dine at the Bell Buckle Café, which hosts live bluegrass music and serves Southern comfort food. The town is renowned for its annual RC Cola and Moon Pie Festival, celebrating two Southern staples with a large street fair and a parade. For shopping, Bluebird Antiques and Ice Cream Parlor offers a variety of vintage goods and a nostalgic ice cream experience.

Leipers Fork

Leipers Fork is a rural village in Tennessee, part of the National Register of Historic Places due to its stunning 19th-century architecture and strong cultural heritage. It is located along the Natchez Trace Parkway, which adds historical significance as it was a crucial trade route in the early history of the South.

Explore local art at the Leiper's Creek Gallery, which features works by Southern artists. For dining, Puckett's Grocery and Restaurant offers a menu of Southern classics and often features live music. The Lawnchair Theatre provides an open-air venue for movies and performances, fostering a strong sense of community. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy Fox and Locke, a local cafe that also hosts intimate live music performances, showcasing the town’s rich artistic community.

Sewanee

Sewanee is renowned for hosting the University of the South, commonly known as Sewanee, established in 1857. The university is a pivotal part of the town’s identity, designed with Gothic architecture that draws comparisons to historic European universities. This architectural style and the school's commitment to maintaining a vast, 13,000-acre campus blend educational pursuit with natural preservation, distinguishing Sewanee from other towns.

Visitors to Sewanee can explore the All Saints’ Chapel, a stunning example of Gothic revival architecture, and the university’s art galleries which host various exhibitions. The Blue Chair Café & Tavern offers local cuisine and baked goods, along with a bookstore and coffee shop atmosphere. The Sewanee Market provides groceries and local products, serving as a community hub. For outdoor activities, the surrounding Cumberland Plateau offers numerous hiking trails, including those leading to Morgan’s Steep and Bridal Veil Falls, showcasing the area’s natural beauty.

Tellico Plains

Tellico Plains serves as the gateway to the Cherokee National Forest, a title that reflects its historical significance as a trading outpost for settlers and Native Americans. The town, established in the early 19th century, is strategically positioned at the entrance of the Cherohala Skyway, enhancing its connection to scenic landscapes and outdoor activities reminiscent of European mountain towns.

Visitors to Tellico Plains can experience the Charles Hall Museum, which houses artifacts from the area’s Native American and pioneer days. For dining, the Tellico Grains Bakery offers freshly made breads and pastries. The Skyway Visitor Center is essential for those planning to drive the Cherohala Skyway, offering maps, exhibits, and expert advice on enjoying the national forest. For outdoor activities, Bald River Falls provides a stunning natural waterfall that's easily accessible from the town, perfect for photography and hiking.

Cumberland Gap

Cumberland Gap is historically significant as a key pass through the Appalachian Mountains used by pioneers during westward expansion. The town, named after the gap itself, was established as a strategic meeting point on the Wilderness Road. Its history is deeply intertwined with the early exploration and settlement of the American West, paralleling the historical importance of passageways through mountain ranges in Europe.

For exploration and education, visitors can delve into the area's rich past at the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, which offers extensive trails and cave tours. The Gap Cave and Hensley Settlement are particularly notable for their natural and historical significance. Artisans Corner houses local crafts and provides live demonstrations. For dining, Webb's Country Kitchen offers traditional American fare. The town’s position at the conjunction of Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee adds a unique tri-state cultural experience.

From the storytelling heritage of Jonesborough to the natural splendor of Gatlinburg and the historical depth of Franklin, these Tennessee towns each offer a unique glimpse into the state's rich past and vibrant present. Blending historic preservation with modern community life, they stand as testament to Tennessee's ability to rival the charm of European towns, celebrating both history and culture in a distinctly American context.