From Furs to Factories to Tourism: The Tennessee Overhill Heritage Association

The Setting
The three counties in this region of Southeast Tennessee that make up the Tennessee Overhill (so named for the 18th century Cherokee towns located over the mountains from the Carolina colonies) were as economically distressed as any could be – once thriving company towns and farms were quietly fading. But the remnants remained – from Cherokee fur-trading days to the coming of gold and copper mines and the railroad. The area was already drawing tourists for recreation. Could the region’s heritage be appealing to visitors as well?

What Happened Next
A group of local visionaries realized they had an important story to tell and formed the Tennessee Overhill Association. In 1990, the National Trust for Historic Preservation began a Heritage Tourism Initiative. Tennessee was selected as one of four states to participate, and the Overhill area was chosen as a pilot area. As part of the initiative the Overhill began work:

• Outreach programs were designed to build pride among residents
• Driving tour brochures were developed
• A folklorist completed an inventory of all traditional artists and art forms in the area
• Programs were created to celebrate African-American heritage
• An agriculture trail was developed
• Assistance was provided to develop new museums and upgrade existing ones

Results

• The association was permanently established with representatives from the three counties
• New cabins, lodges, retreats and B&Bs have opened
• Partnerships have been developed with local recreational companies to develop promotional packages
• Travel writers are hosted on a regular basis
• In 1996, the Overhill Association published a directory of arts and artists in preparation for the upcoming Olympic Whitewater Competition on the Ocoee River
• Many historic buildings have been restored, and interest in preservation has increased.

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