Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Maryville, Tennessee, boasts a captivating history that spans centuries. From its humble beginnings as a frontier settlement to its present-day status as a vibrant city, Maryville’s story is one of resilience, growth, and community spirit. Let’s embark on a journey through time to explore the key events and figures that have shaped this remarkable town.
Early Days: Fort Craig and the Founding of Maryville
The story of Maryville begins with Fort Craig, also known as Craig’s Station, built in 1785 by Revolutionary War veteran John Craig on Pistol Creek. This wooden palisade enclosed cabins and served as a crucial defense against attacks from the Cherokee, who had long used the Great Indian Warpath in the area. In April 1793, as many as 280 settlers sought shelter at the fort in anticipation of imminent attacks. The fort also included a spring within its walls that supplied water to the inhabitants.
John Craig donated 50 acres of land adjacent to the fort for the establishment of a new town. On July 11, 1795, Maryville was officially founded by an act of the General Assembly of the Territory South of the Ohio River. The town was named in honor of Mary Grainger Blount, the wife of territorial governor William Blount, and Blount County was named after the governor. The town’s location was chosen in part because of the abundance of springs for a water supply.
- Seven commissioners were appointed to obtain 50 acres of land.
- The land was divided into lots and sold, with the proceeds designated for the construction of a courthouse and jail.
Growth and Change: 19th Century Development
As the 19th century unfolded, Maryville experienced significant growth and change. In 1819, the Southern and Western Theological Seminary opened its doors, which later became Maryville College in 1842. The college, founded by Presbyterian minister Isaac L. Anderson, became one of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the South.
The family of Sam Houston moved to Maryville around 1808 when he was about 15 years old. Houston briefly worked as a clerk in a store, but soon left to live with the Cherokee, becoming fluent in their language. After returning to Maryville, he established a one-room schoolhouse and then began his military and political career.
Maryville was also a center of abolitionist activity. The Society of Friends (Quakers) and other residents formed an abolitionist society in 1822, and local clergymen spoke out against the evils of slavery. When Tennessee voted on secession in 1861, only 19% of Blount County residents voted in favor.
The Civil War Era: Division and Destruction
The Civil War brought immense challenges and destruction to Maryville. Despite its pro-Union sentiment, the town was not liberated by federal troops until May 1864. In August of that year, Confederate cavalry attacked the courthouse, where Union troops had taken shelter.
- Confederates set fire to several buildings, hoping to dislodge the Union soldiers.
- A fire was set to try to flush Union soldiers from the courthouse.
- A brave African-American slave named Polly Tool rescued most of the city’s records from a burning store.
Much of the town was damaged by fire and artillery during the war, including the original college buildings on Broadway. After the war, Maryville became a hub of Radical Republican activity for East Tennessee.
Late 19th and 20th Century Growth and Development
Following the Civil War, Maryville began the process of rebuilding and modernization.
- The first railroad, the Knoxville and Charleston, was built into Maryville in 1868.
- The town acquired its first public school in the late 1870’s.
- The first electric system was started in 1890.
- A branch line of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad arrived in 1906.
- The first water system was completed in 1916.
- A sanitary sewer system was completed a year later.
- A water filtration plant was put into operation in 1956.
- The Blount County Courthouse was built in 1906 and 1907 after the previous courthouse burned.
In the 1970s, businesses and retailers moved from downtown to shopping centers in Alcoa, leading to a decline of the downtown area. A renewal project called “Now Town” was undertaken but failed to bring businesses back. However, by the 2000s, the city reversed many of the “Now Town” changes, and the downtown area began to revitalize. The downtown area now offers entertainment, offices, restaurants, retail, recreation, government, education, religious institutions, medical facilities and housing.
Key Figures in Maryville’s History
Several notable figures have called Maryville home, including:
- Lamar Alexander, U.S. Senator, former Governor of Tennessee, and Secretary of Education.
- Sam Houston, Texas revolutionary, politician, and governor of Tennessee and Texas.
- Isaac L. Anderson, founder of Maryville College.
- Samuel Pride, a prominent physician, politician, and Confederate sympathizer who served as the first mayor of Maryville.
- Polly Tool, an African-American slave who rescued city records during the Civil War.
Maryville Today: A Thriving City
Today, Maryville is a thriving city with a population of over 31,000. It has a diverse economy and is home to a number of major employers. The city has a rich history of public service, employing over 300 people who have a passion for their community. The downtown area was recently designated a “Main Street” and is being revitalized. Residents and businesses work together to bring new and exciting things to the downtown community. The city continues to strive for new growth and development while providing excellent services and support to existing businesses and industries.
Maryville is also home to many parks including the Bicentennial Greenbelt Park. The city also has an award-winning greenway system.
The Maryville Farmers’ Market
The Maryville Farmers’ Market is a producer-only market in downtown Maryville that operates on Saturdays from April to November. The market is located in the Founders Square Parking Lot on East Broadway.
Conclusion
Maryville’s history is a testament to the strength and spirit of its people. From its beginnings as a frontier fort to its present-day status as a growing city, Maryville has overcome challenges, embraced change, and built a strong sense of community. Its rich history, stunning natural surroundings, and vibrant downtown make it a place worth exploring and celebrating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Fort Craig in Maryville’s history?
Fort Craig, also known as Craig’s Station, was the first settlement in the area that is now Maryville. Built in 1785 by John Craig, it was a palisade fort meant to protect settlers from attacks by Cherokee Indians. The fort was located on Pistol Creek and served as a central point for the early community, housing around 250 men, women and children for approximately one year during a period of tension with local Native American tribes. Additionally, a spring inside the fort provided water for the settlers and their animals.
How did Maryville get its name and when was it established as a town?
Maryville was officially established on July 11, 1795, by an act of the General Assembly of the Territory South of the Ohio River. The town was named in honor of Mary Grainger Blount, the wife of territorial governor William Blount. The county itself was later named in honor of Governor Blount.
What is unique about the Maryville Farmers’ Market?
The Maryville Farmers’ Market is a “producer only” market located in downtown Maryville. This means that all goods sold at the market must be grown or produced by the sellers themselves. The market operates on Saturdays from April to November each year, and those seeking up-to-date information should check the market’s website.
What are some key historical locations in downtown Maryville?
Downtown Maryville is rich in historical sites including the Blount County Courthouse which was rebuilt in 1906-1907 after a fire. The original site of the First Methodist Church, the location of the Southern and Western Theological Seminary (later Maryville College), the old post office built in 1916, and the original location of the courthouse square before it was moved. Also, Woods Tavern where King Louis Philippe of France stayed is another key site. Finally, the site where Sam Houston joined the army during the War of 1812 is marked with a historical plaque.
What role did Maryville play during the Civil War?
Maryville was a center of abolitionist activity prior to the Civil War, largely driven by the Society of Friends and anti-slavery advocates at Maryville College. When Tennessee voted on secession, a majority of Blount County residents opposed it, remaining loyal to the Union. Despite this pro-Union sentiment, the city was attacked by Confederate forces in 1864, resulting in the destruction of some records, though many were saved by an enslaved woman named Polly Tool. During the Reconstruction era, Maryville was a hub of Radical Republican activity.
Who are some notable figures associated with Maryville?
Maryville has been home to many notable individuals. Sam Houston, a Texas revolutionary and politician, lived in Maryville in his youth. Senator Lamar Alexander, who served as both Governor of Tennessee and US Senator, was born in Maryville. Other prominent people include Isaac L. Anderson, founder of Maryville College, Dr. Samuel Pride, an early mayor and community leader, and numerous figures in the arts, athletics, and public service.
What efforts are being made to revitalize downtown Maryville?
Downtown Maryville has achieved “Main Street” status with businesses and residents working together to bring new and exciting things to the area. The city continues to work towards new growth and development while providing excellent services and support to existing businesses and industries. They have used grants to improve roads, sidewalks, lighting, landscaping, parks, and signage. The city also sponsors numerous events to enhance the downtown experience.
What is the significance of Maryville College?
Founded in 1819 by Presbyterian Minister Isaac L. Anderson, Maryville College is one of the oldest colleges in the United States. It originally was called the Southern and Western Theological Seminary, before being renamed Maryville College in 1842. It was established to promote education and enlightenment and to “do good on the largest possible scale.” The college has a strong connection to the Presbyterian Church and remains a notable liberal arts institution in the region.