This Tennessee Town Is Older Than the State Itself

Walk down Main Street, Jonesborough, Tennessee, and you'll be following in the footsteps of legendary figures like Daniel Boone, David Crockett, and Andrew Jackson, all of whom spent time here. Tennessee's oldest town, Jonesborough, was founded in 1779, a full 17 years before Tennessee achieved statehood, and is the place to visit for a dose of the state’s authentic (and possibly eccentric) side.

Originally part of North Carolina, the town took its name from a legislator who championed westward expansion across the Appalachian Mountains. It quickly became a crucial frontier settlement and even served as the capital of the State of Franklin from 1784 to 1785, an audacious attempt by settlers to form the 14th state of the new United States. Though the State of Franklin ultimately missed the required Congressional approval by a single vote, the effort demonstrated an independent spirit that lingered for decades.

Today, Jonesborough remains proud of this historical legacy and offers a remarkable glimpse into America's frontier past. And it is remarkably well-preserved. In fact, the entire downtown district has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1969, just three years after the institute’s creation, making Jonesborough one of the country’s first historic districts.

Historic Landmarks and Attractions

Start your exploration of the past at The Chester Inn State Historic Site and Museum. Jonesborough's oldest commercial building is still in its original location. This handsome three-story structure was built in 1797 by Dr. William Chester for travelers along the Great Stage Road. It also hosted no less than three American presidents, including Andrew Jackson, James K. Polk, and Andrew Johnson. Now owned by the state and run as a museum, the Chester Inn features exhibits about local heritage as well as the region's tobacco farming traditions.

Perhaps the most intriguing historic structure, however, is Christopher Taylor House. Built in 1777, this two-story log home was relocated from the outskirts of town to the historic district and served as Andrew Jackson's residence for five months in 1788. During this time, Jackson practiced law and, according to local lore, was once threatened with tarring and feathering by disgruntled locals. Rumors have it that the cabin is haunted by Jackson's ghost, adding a supernatural element to its historical significance.

You’ll also want to pay a visit to the Washington County Courthouse. Built in 1913 in Classical Revival style, it replaced the original 1779 structure and remains the focal point of the town square. The Chuckey Railroad Depot Museum is another historic landmark that helps tell the story of Tennessee’s oldest town. Here you’ll learn about the East Tennessee and Virginia Railroad, brought to Jonesborough in 1857 by the legendary "Immortal Thirty." This group of local merchants and professionals went so far as to mortgage their homes and businesses to fund the railroad's construction, a fascinating tale that’s worth hearing firsthand from museum staff.

The International Storytelling Center

Jonesborough's most famous attraction celebrates a distinctly Appalachian tradition. The International Storytelling Center, located on Main Street, serves as the global headquarters for the world’s storytelling movement and hosts the annual National Storytelling Festival.

Held in early October, this must-attend event has grown from just a small gathering in 1973 to what is now an internationally recognized event attracting thousands of attendees every year. This fun festival features world-renowned storytellers performing in large circus-style tents spread throughout downtown.

The center also hosts year-round programming through its Storytelling Live series, featuring well-known storytellers performing Tuesday through Saturday at 2 p.m. from May through October. The Jonesborough Storytelling Guild spins yarns every Tuesday evening at 7 p.m. at the Mary B. Martin Theatre and is the only weekly storytelling venue in the United States.

Events and Entertainment

As well as the National Storytelling Festival, Jonesborough maintains a busy calendar of community events. Jonesborough Days, held every year in July, celebrates the town's heritage with reenactments, craft demos, and traditional music. Music on the Square presents free concerts every Friday night from May to September, including bluegrass and contemporary performers.

The Jonesborough Repertory Theatre, located on W. Main Street, presents both classic and contemporary productions throughout the year. Typical productions range from classic Tennessee Williams' plays to Broadway musicals like The Sound of Music. The McKinney Center at Booker T. Washington School hosts rotating art and craft exhibits highlighting the work of regional artists and creators.

Traveling with kids? Wetlands Water Park provides relief from summer heat with water slides, a lazy river, and swimming areas. The park also hosts special events during Jonesborough Days and other town celebrations.

Historic Places to Stay

There’s no shortage of great places to stay in Jonesborough that offer an authentic local experience as you explore. The Jonesborough Bed and Breakfast, housed in a turn-of-the-century Victorian-era home on Woodrow Avenue, offers period-decorated rooms with private baths. For the low-down on the best places to visit as well as local tips and tactics, have a good chat with Innkeeper Brian Mills over your locally sourced breakfast.

The Franklin House Bed & Breakfast on Franklin Avenue is another historic home worth a stay. In addition to its spacious suites with period furnishings, it’s also located within walking distance of Main Street attractions.

Prefer something a little more contemporary? Country Inn & Suites by Radisson provides standard hotel amenities, including an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast. The property sits just two miles from historic downtown Jonesborough and offers easy access to historic attractions and the water park.

While not as old as the hills in which it’s located, Jonesborough’s unique history makes it a must-visit for those curious about Tennessee’s founding years. From its early days as the capital of the lost State of Franklin to its current place on the world’s storytelling map, this Tennessee treasure tells a fascinating few chapters in the state’s rich history. Whether you come for the ghosts or for the presidents (or sometimes both) or just to walk streets older than the state itself, Jonesborough offers an authentic glimpse into America's frontier days.