La Follette, TN

La Follette, Tennessee is a small city located in Campbell County in the northeastern part of the state. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, before European settlers arrived in the late 18th century.

The city was named after its founder, Harvey Marion La Follette. He was originally from Indiana and moved to Tennessee in the late 19th century to work in the coal mining industry. La Follette saw the potential for economic growth in the region and decided to establish a town. In 1890, he founded the La Follette Coal, Iron and Railroad Company, which became the largest mining operation in the area.

The city of La Follette grew rapidly as more people were attracted to the coal mining industry. The population increased, and the town became a significant center for coal production. Several coal mines were established in the area, and the city became known as a major coal-mining hub in the region.

During the early 20th century, La Follette faced multiple challenges. Labor disputes and strikes were common in the coal mining industry, and the town had its fair share of conflicts between mine operators and workers. In 1933, a deadly clash between striking miners and the P. W. Joplin Coal Company occurred, resulting in several deaths and injuries.

Despite the challenges, La Follette continued to thrive economically due to its coal resources. However, with the decline of the coal industry in the latter half of the 20th century, the city faced significant economic setbacks. Many mines closed, leading to a decline in population and job opportunities.

In recent years, La Follette has made efforts to diversify its economy and attract new industries. The city's location near Norris Lake, a popular recreational area, has helped in attracting tourists and boosting tourism-related businesses. La Follette has also focused on promoting small businesses and revitalizing its downtown area to attract investment.

Today, La Follette remains a small but resilient city with a population of approximately 7,000 residents. It continues to face challenges associated with its industrial past but is working towards a more sustainable and diverse economy. The city's history as a coal mining center is still evident in its culture and community, with various coal mining museums and historical sites celebrating this heritage.

Norris Lake

A beautiful lake known for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping.

Cove Lake State Park

A scenic park with hiking trails, picnic areas, a swimming pool, and a lake for fishing and boating.

Museum of Appalachian Coal Mining

A museum dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of coal mining in the Appalachian region.

La Follette Country Club

A golf course that offers scenic views and a challenging game.

Big South Fork Scenic Railway

A historic railway that takes visitors on a scenic journey through the Cumberland Plateau.

The Riggs Drug Store and Anderson County Museum

A historic drug store turned museum that showcases the history of the area.

Norris Dam State Park

Located nearby, this park offers hiking trails, fishing, camping, and a visitor center with exhibits on the history and impact of the TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority) and the construction of Norris Dam.

Campbell County Historical Society

A society dedicated to preserving the rich history and heritage of Campbell County and hosting historical exhibits and events.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

A national park located nearby that offers hiking trails, historic sites, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Indian Mountain State Park

A state park with hiking and mountain biking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks.

La Follette, Tennessee experiences a humid subtropical climate. Summers in La Follette are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging in the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 31-34 degrees Celsius). It is not uncommon for temperatures to reach the mid-90s (around 35-37 degrees Celsius) during the summer months. High humidity levels make it feel even hotter during this time of the year.

Winters in La Follette are generally mild, with temperatures averaging around the upper 20s to low 40s Fahrenheit (around -2 to 5 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is not particularly common in this region, but it can occur occasionally during the winter months.

Spring and fall seasons in La Follette are usually mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 70s Fahrenheit (around 4 to 26 degrees Celsius). These seasons are characterized by colorful foliage in the fall and blooming flowers in the spring.

La Follette, Tennessee experiences a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months occurring during the late spring and early summer, and again in the late fall. Thunderstorms can be relatively common during these times, bringing heavy rain, and occasionally, strong winds and hail.

Overall, La Follette has a relatively mild climate with four distinct seasons, featuring warm to hot summers, mild winters, and pleasant springs and falls.

La Follette, TN is a small city located in Campbell County in northeastern Tennessee. While it is not a large city, La Follette is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the main neighborhoods in La Follette:

Downtown

The heart of La Follette, the downtown area is the central business district of the city. It is home to various shops, restaurants, and other commercial establishments. Downtown La Follette also features several historic buildings, giving the area a charming and nostalgic atmosphere.

Ridgeview

Located on the eastern side of the city, Ridgeview is a predominantly residential neighborhood. It offers a mix of housing options, including single-family homes and apartments. Ridgeview is known for its scenic views of the surrounding mountains, making it an attractive area for nature lovers.

Cumberland Heights

Situated on the western side of La Follette, Cumberland Heights is another primarily residential neighborhood. It features a mix of housing styles, including historic homes, modern houses, and townhouses. Cumberland Heights is known for its tight-knit community feel and is a popular choice for families and retirees.

Jacksboro

While technically a separate town, Jacksboro is located just south of La Follette and is an essential part of the local community. Many La Follette residents commute to Jacksboro for work, school, or shopping. Jacksboro offers a range of amenities, including retail centers, schools, and recreational facilities.

Powell Valley

Located to the east of the city center, Powell Valley is a picturesque and mainly residential neighborhood. It is known for its beautiful forested areas and proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking and fishing. Powell Valley offers a tranquil atmosphere and a slower pace of life.

East La Follette

Positioned to the northeast of downtown, East La Follette is a diverse neighborhood featuring a mix of housing options. The area has both single-family homes and multifamily developments. East La Follette is known for its convenience, as it is close to the city's amenities and is easily accessible from major roads.

These are just a few of the neighborhoods in La Follette, TN. Each area offers its own unique qualities, whether it's the historic charm of downtown, the scenic beauty of Ridgeview and Powell Valley, or the convenience and amenities available in Jacksboro and East La Follette.