Rogersville, TN

County: Hawkins

History

Rogersville, Tennessee

Rogersville, Tennessee is a historic town located in Hawkins County. It was settled in the late 18th century by Irish immigrant Joseph Rogers, who came to the area in search of land. Rogers opened a tavern and eventually laid out a plan for the town, which was officially established in 1787.

During the early years, Rogersville served as a hub for pioneers settling in the region and played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States. The town was strategically located on the Great Wilderness Road, a popular route for settlers moving from Virginia and North Carolina to Kentucky and points west.

In 1796, Tennessee became a state, and Rogersville briefly served as the first capital of the state before Knoxville took on that role. Rogersville continued to grow and prosper throughout the 19th century, thanks to its position as a trade center and its thriving agricultural economy.

One significant event in Rogersville's history was the Confederate occupation during the American Civil War. The town was occupied by Confederate troops initially but was later taken over by Union forces in late 1863. The Battle of Rogersville was fought in November of that year, during which the Confederates unsuccessfully attempted to retake the town.

Throughout the 20th century, Rogersville continued to develop and evolve. The town experienced periods of growth and decline, but its rich history and preservation efforts helped it maintain its charm. Today, Rogersville is known for its well-preserved historic district, which features numerous buildings dating back to the early 1800s.

Tourism plays a significant role in the town's economy, with visitors drawn to its historic sites, antique shops, and annual festivals. The Rogersville Heritage Association, formed in 1968, has played a vital role in preserving and promoting the town's history.

Overall, the history of Rogersville, TN showcases its importance as a pioneer settlement and a prominent stop on the Great Wilderness Road. From its founding by Joseph Rogers to its role in the Civil War, the town has a rich and fascinating history that continues to be celebrated and cherished by its residents and visitors alike.

Attractions

Historic Downtown Rogersville

Historic Downtown Rogersville

Stroll through the charming streets of downtown Rogersville and admire the well-preserved historic buildings, including the Carter Mansion and Hale Springs Inn.

Rogersville City Park

Enjoy a relaxing day at Rogersville City Park, which features playgrounds, picnic areas, walking trails, and a fishing pond.

Burem Missionary Baptist Church

Visit this historic church, which was built in 1786 and is one of the oldest churches in Tennessee.

Crockett Spring Park

Explore this beautiful park, which offers walking trails, a gazebo, and a spring that was once used as a water source.

Swift Park

Take a leisurely walk or have a picnic at Swift Park, located along the Holston River and offering stunning views.

Price Public Community Center

Attend events, concerts, and festivals at the Price Public Community Center, which also houses the Rogersville Heritage Association's museum.

Rogersville Train Depot

Visit the historic train depot, which now serves as a museum showcasing the town's railroad history.

Cherokee Lake

Just a short drive away from Rogersville, Cherokee Lake offers ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities.

Amis Mill Eatery

Dine at Amis Mill Eatery, a historic grist mill turned restaurant that serves delicious Southern cuisine in a scenic setting.

Rogersville Heritage Days

If you happen to visit during the annual Rogersville Heritage Days, you can enjoy live music, food vendors, crafts, and historical reenactments.

Climate

Rogersville, Tennessee, has a humid subtropical climate. It experiences four distinct seasons with mild winters and hot summers. Here is a breakdown of the climate in Rogersville:

Summers (June to August)

Summers in Rogersville are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from the high 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (29-34°C). July is typically the hottest month of the year. Humidity levels are relatively high, and occasional thunderstorms can occur, bringing brief bursts of heavy rain. July is also the wettest month of the year.

Autumns (September to November)

Autumns in Rogersville are pleasant with mild temperatures. September is still warm, with temperatures in the high 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (25-29°C). As the season progresses, temperatures gradually cool down, and October sees temperatures ranging from the high 60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (15-22°C). November brings cooler temperatures, ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit (10-19°C).

Winters (December to February)

Winters in Rogersville are relatively mild compared to more northern regions. Temperatures typically range from the mid-30s to low 50s Fahrenheit (1-11°C). Snowfall is not uncommon during winter months, but it is usually light and doesn't accumulate significantly. January is the coldest month of the year.

Springs (March to May)

Springs in Rogersville are mild and gradually transition from cool to warm temperatures. March sees temperatures in the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (13-17°C). As spring progresses, temperatures rise, with April ranging from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (17-23°C). By May, temperatures reach the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (25-28°C). Spring is also a relatively wet season.

It's worth noting that the climate can vary slightly from year to year, with occasional extreme temperatures or weather events. Overall, Rogersville experiences a typical subtropical climate with four distinct seasons.

Neighborhoods

Rogersville is a small town located in Hawkins County, Tennessee. While the town itself may not have clearly defined neighborhoods, there are a few distinct areas within and around Rogersville that offer different experiences and amenities.

Downtown/Rogersville Historic District

This is the heart of Rogersville, where you'll find a charming blend of historical buildings and modern businesses. The Rogersville Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing well-preserved architecture and offering a glimpse into the town's history. Here, you'll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and small businesses.

Church Hill

Located just northwest of Rogersville, Church Hill is a neighboring town that's often considered part of the Rogersville community. It offers a more rural atmosphere and is known for its rich history. Church Hill is also home to beautiful parks and outdoor recreational areas, making it a haven for nature lovers.

Bulls Gap

Situated southeast of Rogersville, Bulls Gap is a small community along the Interstate 81 corridor. It's known for being close-knit and family-friendly. Bulls Gap offers a relaxed rural lifestyle while providing easy access to the amenities of larger cities, as it is conveniently located between Knoxville and Johnson City.

Mooresburg

Mooresburg is a rural neighborhood located along the Holston River, northeast of Rogersville. It offers a peaceful and scenic environment, surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful landscapes. Mooresburg is known for its close-knit community and slower pace of life, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Surgoinsville

Another neighboring town just west of Rogersville, Surgoinsville offers rural living with a strong community spirit. The town features a historic downtown area as well as proximity to outdoor attractions like the Holston River and Bays Mountain Park. Surgoinsville is known for its friendly residents and small-town charm.

While each of these areas may have distinct characteristics, they all contribute to the overall charm and community feel of Rogersville, Tennessee. Whether you prefer the historical downtown, a rural atmosphere, or a blend of both, there is something for everyone in and around Rogersville.

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