YOUR 2018 VISITOR’S GUIDE TO RHEA COUNTY, TENNESSEE Rhea County
REVEALED2018 EDITION A look at Rhea County’s Outdoors, History, Attractions, Festivals And Much More Inside!
A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE HERALD-NEWS www.rheaheraldnews.com THE KEYS TO YOUR FUTURE START WITH ERA BLUE KEY PROPERTIES! OUR PROFESSIONAL TEAM WILL WALK YOU THROUGH EVERY STEP OF THE REAL ESTATE PROCESS TO MAKE YOUR DREAM OF HOME OWNERSHIP A REALITY!
NOW SERVING RHEA COUNTY IN 2 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS 4087 Rhea County Hwy, Suite 103 Dayton, TN 37321 423-775-1920 22576 Rhea County Hwy Spring City, TN 37381 423-365-2515 Jim Monday Gary Venice BROKER-DAYTON VISIT ERABLUEKEY.COM BROKER-SPRING CITY 423-718-2682 FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS 423-508-8025
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Terry Carlyle Aimee Rose Jason Price Carol Movre Theresa Diffenderfer Pat Branham 423-602-1994 423-802-9538 423-834-2386 901-628-0988 423-618-8626 423-304-5597
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2 Rhea county Revealed www.RheaheRaldnews.com Welcome to Rhea County, Tennessee
Welcome to Rhea County. and Scopes Trial Museum in the water. Or you can take a stroll Whether you’re a history buff basement of the Rhea County through the Laurel-Snow State looking to explore pivotal Courthouse, site of the 1925 Natural Area, which has an moments in American history Scopes Trial, and learn the story abundance of hiking trails, such as the 1925 Scopes Trial or behind one of the most famous streams and rivers and provides the Trail of Tears or love the trials in world history. some of the most beautiful outdoors and spending time on Or perhaps you want to delve scenery in Tennessee. hiking trails or lounging along into the arts. Then take in a play In this sixth edition of Rhea the shores of Watts Bar Lake, at Spring City’s Tennessee Valley County Revealed, you’ll find you’ve come to the right place. Theatre, which produces and information that will help you Nestled between the Tennessee performs not only nationally discover all the fun and natural River and the Cumberland known plays but locally written beauty that Rhea County has to Plateau and only a short drive plays as well. offer. The Herald-News is proud from major cities such as Are you the outdoors type? to provide visitors with the only Knoxville and Chattanooga, Rhea Rhea County is home to Watts guide that will ensure your visit County offers visitors convenient Bar Lake and Chickamauga Lake, to Rhea County is an enjoyable fun for the entire family. both replete with lakeside one. Visitors can stroll through the retreats and fishing hotspots sure We look forward to your next newly-renovated Rhea Heritage to provide a relaxing day on the visit! Advertisers’ Index
Amigo Mexican Restaurant...... 24 Fort Bluff Camp...... 10 Rhea County EMS...... 20 Bryan College...... 34 Golden Eagle Self Storage...... 17 Rhea County Fair...... 26 Carrabelle’s...... 13 Grandview Mountain Cottages...... 35 Rhea County...... 7 Century 21 Roberson Realty Unlimited...... 32 Hardee’s...... 23 Rhea County Historical & Genealogical Society City of Dayton...... 15 La-z-boy...... 25 ...... 18 Coldwell Banker Pryor Realty Inc...... 40 Life Care Center of Rhea County / The Veranda Rhea Medical Center...... 31 Dayton Boat Dock...... 14 Assisted Living...... 19 RiverValley Ag Credit...... 33 Dayton Chamber of Commerce...... 37 Mattress Nook...... 11 Santek Waste Services...... 16 Dayton Mainstreet...... 21 Middle Tennessee Natural Gas...... 39 Southeast Bank...... 29 Ellie’s Catfish Cafe’...... 17 Money Concepts...... 12 Steak ‘n Shake...... 13 ERA Real Estate BlueKey Properties...... 2 Morgan Furniture & Rent to Own Center...... 24 Tennesse Valley Federal Credit Union...... 27 Farm Bureau Insurance...... 29 New Union Baptist Church...... 22 Town of Spring City...... 9 Fish Dayton...... 28 Restaurant Page...... 38 Volunteer Energy Cooperative (VEC)...... 16 www.rheaheraldnews.com Rhea county revealed 3 RHEA COUNTY REVEALED INDEX Attractions Festivals Laurel-Snow State Strawberry Festival...... 17 Natural Area...... 5 Fourth of July...... 19 Tennessee Valley Scopes Festival...... 20 Theatre...... 6 Rhea County Fair...... 20 Museums...... 8-9 PumpkinFest...... 20 Dayton Electric Bldg...10 Christmas...... 22 Historic Trails...... 10-11 Fishing...... 12 History Washington...... 23 Shopping Spring City...... 26 Dayton...... 29 The Herald-News Shopping...... 13 Graysville...... 30 Rhea County’s hometown newspaper since 1898 3687 Rhea County Hwy. • P.O. Box 286 • MainStreet Dayton...... 13 Trail of Tears...... 30 Dayton, TN 37321 • Phone: (423) 775-6111 • Fax: (423) 775-8218 • Grandview Normal Email: [email protected] • www.rheaheraldnews.com Institute...... 32 2015 Rhea County Revealed editorial content Scopes Trial...... 32 provided by Becky Tucker, Reed Johnson, Christopher Hall and Pat Guffey Dining Dayton’s Dining...... 14 New Deal Art...... 36 Copyright ©2018, The Herald-News 4 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com THINGS TO DO IN RHEA COUNTY
Whether it’s a night out at and features two prominent Reservoir and was once the the theater or an afternoon vis- overlooks, Buzzard Point and water supply for the town of iting local museums, there is no Bryan Overlook. Dayton. The low dam across the shortage of attractions in Rhea The natural area also has sce- stream can still be seen, County. nic creeks, steep gorges, geo- although water is no longer col- Visitors can also take a hike logic features, a small stand of lected here for the town. through the Laurel-Snow State virgin timber and a wide variety The Laurel-Snow trail was Natural Area or visit local farms of plants. the first National Recreation and historic trails. After about 1.5 miles of hik- Trail designated in Tennessee. No matter where you go in ing into the natural area beside See http://www.american- Rhea County, you are sure to Richland Creek, the trail forks. trails.org/nationalrecreation- find something fun for every You can reach Buzzard Point trails/ for more information. member of your family. and Snow Falls by following the Laurel-Snow State Natural trail as it forks to the left going Area is part of the Cumberland west. The trail to the right leads Trail State Scenic Trail, and the to Laurel Snow Falls and then area includes trailhead parking Laurel-Snow State eventually climbs to the top of and an open section of the Natural Area the falls. The distance for both Cumberland Trail. trails is about eight miles round See http://www.cumberland- Laurel-Snow State Natural trip. trail.org/ for general informa- Area is a 2,259-acre natural area The land use history of this tion and stipulations on back- located in Rhea County. The area remains evident in places. country camping in the area. natural area occurs on the Logging and deep mining took The Cumberland Trail, the Walden Ridge of the Cumber- place in some portions of the state’s only linear state park, land Plateau and contains a sec- area in the late 1800s and early when completed, will be 300 tion of gorge that is deeply dis- 1900s. Some remnants of the miles in length cutting through sected by Morgan, Henderson, mining activities can still be 11 Tennessee counties from the Laurel and Richland Creeks. seen along the trail near the Cumberland Gap National His- The site is named after two parking area. toric Park on the Tennessee- scenic waterfalls, Laurel Falls Part of Richland Creek was Virginia-Kentucky border to (80 feet) and Snow Falls (35 feet) dammed to serve as the Dayton Signal Point near Chattanooga. www.rheaheraldnews.com Rhea county revealed 5 Visitors to Laurel-Snow State Natural Area view the reamins of the Dayton Coal and Iron Company that once called the area home in the early 20th century.
Public access is allowed; With the conviction that yes, school curriculum. parking and hiking trails are Rhea County should have a The theater sponsors sum- provided. The natural area has community theater, the Tennes- mer children’s workshops to 10.5 miles of hiking trails. see Valley Theatre developed. teach various acting and theat- Backcountry camping is by In three short weeks the rical production skills to area permit only. Call 423-566-2229 determined, can-do attitude of students. Workshops conclude to obtain a permit or request the core group produced a play with a public performance by more information. selected by a play-reading com- the participants. mittee, a fund-raising drive, a The theater showcases the director and co-producers, many talents of area residents, Tennessee announcement of auditions, provides quality arts perfor- publicity, set crew, ordering of mances for the community and Valley Theatre play books, printing of tickets prepares future performers. Our current community the- and posters and a place pro- The theater is a nonprofit ater began in Rhea County in vided by a local resident. organization dependent on 1989 when two members of the Tennessee Valley Theatre extensive volunteer services of Spring City Women’s Club initi- opened with “Harvey” in June, many actors and stage crew- ated efforts to organize a group 1989. members. interested in bringing live the- In addition to weekend per- Performances throughout the ater to the area. formances, the theater produces years have included seasonal The first meeting was attend- plays for area schools. classics such as “A Christmas ed by 24 individuals whose Teachers bring students to Carol”, original plays from local enthusiasm led to fundraisers, performances, allowing ele- artists, numerous Broadway corporate support and numer- mentary students to experience ous volunteer hours. live theater as a part of their See ATTRACTIONS page 8
6 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com Discover Rhea County We’re proud to call Rhea County home.
^^^YOLHJV\U[`[UJVT www.rheaheraldnews.com rhea county revealed 7 Included in its collections are and Genealogical Society Attractions rocks and fossils from coal administers the museum locat- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6 mines in Rhea County, African ed in the basement of the Rhea lions, specimens of extinct spe- County Courthouse in Dayton. plays, monologues and musical cies, preserved reptiles, skulls The museum was established shows. of various animals and even a to preserve and present history Both local productions and replica of the head of Tyranno- related to the Scopes Trial. presentations from area artists saurus rex dinosaur. The society has extended the are included in the theater’s Museum hours at the cam- museum exhibits to include year-round programming. pus museum are available by various events and personalities calling Bryan College at (423) important to the history of Rhea 775-2041. County. Henning Museum The museum is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to at Bryan College 4:30 p.m. and on Saturday from This natural museum, begun Rhea Heritage and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the 1970’s as a collection of The museum is closed on plants and animals, now holds Scopes Trial Museum Saturday during the months of more that 100,000 items. The Rhea County Historical January and February.
In 2018, the Rhea Heritage and Scopes Trial Mseum underwent significant remodeling and redesign. The new museum designs include story boards detailing the key players and moments surrounding the 1925 Scopes Trial as well as a section of the museum that highlights other moments in Rhea County history, such as the founding of the county, the arrival of the railroad and other important events in Rhea history. The museum also features an interactive touch screen display that will further showcase the history of the Scopes Trial and Rhea County. An artist’s rendering of the new museum is pictured above.
8 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com Spring City Museum Located on Front Street in Spring City, the depot, originally built by the Queen and Crescent Rail- road out of Cincinnati, Ohio, has been restored and now houses offices and a muse- um highlighting the history of the area. The tracks of the railroad built for the purpose of extending travel and com- merce to the south still carry trains through the area, but the passenger depot now tells the story of the area’s past through both perma- nent and changing exhib- its. A museum annex in the adjoining block is used for special shows and events. The Spring City Depot, located on Front Street in downtown Spring City, is pictured above.
www.townofspringcitytn.com
www.rheaheraldnews.com rhea county revealed 9 Dayton Water and Civil War Trail the Sequatchie Valley. Signs throughout the county Electric Building Rhea County experienced designate Rhea County as a Inside the Dayton Electric skirmishes, military occupation, part of the national Civil War and Water Building, located at pillaging, looting and destruc- Trail. 400 Main Street in Dayton, visi- tion during the war. tors can view original New Deal Even though no significant Trail of Tears era artwork. military battle was fought in The canvas was painted by Rhea County, the war was defi- Historic Trail Bertram Hartman in 1937 as a nitely felt by those whose fam- Signs along highways 60 and part of the public works pro- ily members joined the armies, 30 mark the route followed by gram initiated during The Great those whose buildings were Cherokees as they were forced Depression to relieve the finan- burned and those whose farms from their ancestral lands east cial woes of the country. were plundered. of the Mississippi to Indian The mural features picnick- U.S. Gen. William T. Sherman lands in the west. ers on Johnson’s Bluff overlook- was in Washington at one point Blythe Ferry, located at the ing Cranmore Cove in Rhea during the war. Gen. Joseph confluence of the Hiawassee County. Wheeler took his Confederate River with the Tennessee River, The building is open to the army through Rhea County on was the transportation used to public Monday through Friday the way to their spectacular raid move the Cherokees into Rhea during normal business hours. against Union supply lines in County.
10 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com A state historical load their trucks with marker on South Mar- produce and come to ket Street in Dayton farmers on Washington records that the Trail of Avenue in Dayton Tears crossed the Ten- where they sell their nessee Valley through fruits and vegetables to Rhea County. the public. “Where Sleep Happens A severe drought in Sweet corn, succu- the southeast during lent melons and juicy For Less” 1838 made ferry cross- tomatoes are among ings difficult. Chero- the many locally pro- kees were encamped duced items. In addi- for weeks east of the tion, some farmers sell PX5)!!!/2 river on land which regionally grown prod- today is Cherokee ucts. !-W! 1%0$ Removal Park. Those driving The park is open through the county’s 7 X5%(1 52 Thursday through Sun- rural communities will day and includes an also discover many W!00!2/44520B interpretive center and vegetable stands on a river overlook. family farms. Fall in Rhea County brings the bright colors Scopes of turning leaves and P-5% ! D5 Evolution the fall harvest of Trial Tour orchards and farms. 5/X * (%4B Twenty-seven sites in the Dayton area have Appalachian been identified as plac- es significant in the Quilt Trail history of the 1925 Enjoy viewing the Our prices are low so Scopes Trial. quilt squares as you Metal historic mark- walk through the town you won’t pay too much. ers have been placed of Dayton or as you by the Tennessee His- drive to Graysville in Twin Mattress starting.... $99.00 torical Commission at the southern part of the many of the tour sites. county. Full Mattress starting...$149.00 For more informa- The “Stars of Down- tion, visit the Rhea town Dayton” display Queen Mattress Pillow Top Heritage and Scopes eight star designs used starting ...... $224.00 Trial Museum in the to piece or appliqué basement of the Rhea quilts. County Courthouse. Replicas of the quilt www.mattressnook.com squares are affixed to the exterior of down- 4087 Rhea Co. Hwy. (Next to Captain D’s) Dayton town buildings. Along the way, Dayton, TN 37321 Farmers’ Market browse at the town’s Every spring, sum- architecture, stop for a mer and fall, farmers refreshment, visit the 423-570-1777 www.rheaheraldnews.com rhea county revealed 11 courthouse museum exports apples through- make it the perfect many species that may and discover the bar- out the country. place to spend a day be targets for anglers gains in the stores. Many families enjoy fishing on the water. such as black bass, The Graysville outings to Wooden’s Several national crappie, sunfish, square is taken from Apple House to select fishing tournaments sauger, walleye, striped the pattern of a local pumpkins for fall jack- have begun to call bass, catfish and trout. resident for her hand- o-lanterns. Dayton’s Chickamauga With the recent sewn coverlet. Lake home, including increase in the number The Quilt Trail cele- the FLW Tour, Bassmas- of national fishing brates the Appalachian ter Weekend Series tournaments choosing skill, which was both a Tidwell Farms and Heartland to settle in Rhea Coun- creative expression and Located along High- Anglers. ty, local tournament a functional household way 27 north, Tidwell’s Portions of Chicka- organizers have come item. fields grow crops that mauga and Watts Bar to call Dayton the This trail provides a contribute to Rhea Lakes and the Tennes- “New Bass Fishing reminder of an artistic County’s agriculture see River snake their Capitol of the South.” treasure of our rich economy. way through the coun- Visit www.fishday- Appalachian heritage. In the late spring, ty, and there are sev- ton.com for more strawberries bloom and eral types of fishing information about are harvested for sell to opportunities available upcoming fishing tour- Wooden’s the locals and for in Rhea County reser- naments, some of Apple House export to area mar- voirs and their tribu- which have been and kets. taries. will be nationally tele- Many local folks The popularity of the In regards to these vised. travel west on Highway Tidwell strawberries reservoirs there are 30 just across the Rhea has led to area signs County line on announcing their avail- Your Financial Planning Partners Walden’s Ridge to ability or the unwel- enjoy the fruits of the comed sign of “Sold harvest at Wooden’s Out.” Apple House. Tidwell Farms also Now under the man- produces blueberries Brock Harris agement of the third available to the public generation of Woodens, in the summer. the Apple House serves treats of apple dump- lings, pies, cider and Fishing more. Rhea County’s The warehouse sells beautiful scenery and to the public and abundant shoreline
For assistance in building a financial road map that fits your family’s needs, partner with Brock and Money Concepts today! www.moneyconcepts.com/bharris 181 Third Avenue in Dayton 423-570-0975 !LL¬SECURITIES¬THROUGH¬-ONEY¬#ONCEPTS¬#APITAL¬#ORP¬s¬-EMBER¬&).2!3)0# Anglers display the catches from Dayton’s Lake Chickamauga. 12 Rhea county Revealed www.RheaheRaldnews.com MainStreet program helps downtown Dayton thrive Shopping Dayton is a participant of MainStreet Dayton’s in the MainStreet program work to encourage shoppers of the Natural Trust for and entrepreneurs to be a Downtown areas in Spring City’s stores. Historic Preservation. part of the downtown Spring City and Dayton, Find freshly-made The town was chosen to district. strip malls along the pastries, prints and join with others across the A business resource highways and free- originals from local nation to follow a strategic center operated by standing stores offer artists and unique gifts. approach to revitalizing the MainStreet Dayton provides numerous shopping Stop and discover downtown area. This professional expertise to opportunities throughout treasures in nooks and preservation-based those considering a new crannies of antique economic development tool downtown business. Rhea County. enables communities to put The MainStreet program Souvenirs, vintage stores, specialty shops new life into downtown has fostered the clothing and jewelry, and gift galleries. districts by revitalizing their community’s planning and locally-fired pottery and Rare finds from estates economies while preserving implementation of heritage antiques can all are often purchased at the character of their past. transforming changes to be found inside these local auction houses. A welcoming archway, Dayton’s commercial and stores. Your shopping new fences at municipal residential areas. Park and walk to the experiences can provide parking areas, bricked cross Take a stroll through walks, energy efficient downtown Dayton, visit the shops in the revitalized countless reminders of windows and doors and shops and see what exactly downtown district of your good times in Rhea fresh coats of paint on store the MainStreet program Dayton or stroll into County. n fronts are all visual evidence has to offer. n
4370 Rhea County Hwy. Dayton, TN 37321
4370 Rhea County Hwy. 423-664-9494 Dayton, TN 37321 Check us out on Facebook, 423-428-9441 Instagram & Twitter Check us out on Download the Steak & Shake app Facebook & Instagram to start receiving rewards! www.rheaheraldnews.com rhea county revealed 13 Dining in Rhea County From snacks and quick meals to Drive-through windows of fine dining, find it all in Rhea national chains and local County. sandwich shops provide fast For those here in the service for those eager to refuel wintertime, warm up with a hot before their next adventure. chocolate, coffee or latte coupled Some restaurants schedule with a hearty soup or hot gospel singing groups during sandwich. dinner hours. On a summer afternoon, enjoy Check advertisements for a glass of iced tea while menu items, hours of operation overlooking the river from a and special features of restaurant patio or have a cone of restaurants. The wide variety of ice cream sitting on a park bench menu choices combined with under the shade of oaks. excellent food quality make meals Blackened salmon, wonton in Rhea County a special treat. soup and prime rib are available View the list of advertisers on to those ready to relax for an page 3 for further dining evening meal. suggestions. n
Michael Neal
Enjoy a country breakfast, homemade plate lunch, or a regular lunch menu item including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. The boat dock has live bait, bass and crappie tackle, rods and reels, life jackets, fishing nets, and souvenir T-shirts. -ICHAEL¬.EAL¬ ¬/WNER¬¬s¬¬,AKESHORE¬$RIVE ¬$AYTON ¬4ENNESSEE¬ %MAIL¬DAYTONBOATDOCK YAHOOCOM¬¬s¬ ¬ ¬
14 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com City of Dayton At Your Service
–––––––––– City Departments –––––––––– Airport Library Wastewater Treatment Animal Shelter Maintenance Streets Billing Police Department Water Treatment Plant Business License Property Tax Parks and Recreation Electrical Department Sanitation (Sports Complex & Fire Department Sewer Rehab Walking Track) Experienced leadership, progress planning and solid values all contribute to Dayton’s growth. Mayor — Gary Louallen Councilmen — Jim Lewis Vice Mayor — Steve Randolph City Recorder — Michelle Horton Councilmen — Bobby Doss City Attorney — Susan Arnold Councilmen — Bill Graham City Manager — Tommy Solomon City of Dayton P.O. Box 226, Dayton, Tennessee 37321 www.rheaheraldnews.com Rhea county revealed 15 Working Harder For You
Commercial & Industrial Collection Services
“Helping Every time you turn on a light switch, we’re working for you. Every time you take a hot shower or enjoy a hot meal, we’re working for you. We will be there for you, making to keep our things more comfortable, more enjoyable, more livable.
We’re proud to be a working part of your life. communities VOLUNTEER ENERGY COOPERATIVE clean.” For all your energy needs: Spring City 423-365-5220 423-476-9160 www.vec.org
16 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com Rhea County has a lot to celebrate, from national holidays like Independence Day and Christmas to the area’s rich history Festivals and culture involving agriculture and world-famous crops. Tennessee almost half a century. Run, Family Fun Night, an old- The county was known as the fashioned carnival, the straw- Strawberry Festival “Strawberry Capital of the World,” berry pie and cake baking con- The Tennessee Strawberry Fes- but production waned as the soil’s test, Strawberry Shortcake Night tival is by far the biggest event in nutrients became exhausted. at Centennial Park, a plethora of Rhea County. Although the Lions Club had local entertainment and gospel From its beginnings in the started the festival while the crops singing, food, crafts, an auction, a 1940s when it was only a one-day were dwindling, festivities contin- cruise-in, a pancake breakfast festival sponsored by the Dayton ued and are going strong today. and the Distinguished Young Lions Club, the festival has turned The Strawberry Parade is the Woman of Rhea County Scholar- into a 10-day extravaganza each biggest crowd gatherer, as thou- ship Program, which polishes off May full of events and activities, sands of spectators come out the festival. many of which are sponsored by from Rhea County and beyond to This year’s festival begins the the Dayton Chamber of Com- see a long lineup of floats, horses second week of May with the merce. and everything in between. Strawberry Festival Parade set for The festival’s genesis was Other much-anticipated Saturday, May 12. brought about after Rhea County events include the Strawberry For more information on the boasted strawberry production as Pageant, which kicks off the fes- Strawberry Festival, visit www. one of its principal businesses for tivities, the Ed Gentry Memorial daytonchamber.org/tnsf.
ELLIE‛S ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ CATFISH CAFE 423-570-0620 260 16th Ave, Suite 61, Dayton, TN 37321 • 24 hour passcode 10x10 10x15 Monday thru Friday 11 to 1:30 entry security gate 10x20 • Well lit Dinner – 4 to 7:30 • 125 units total Call for Availability Saturday 4-7:30 423 Golden Eagle Storage 775-3888 14421 Rhea Co. Hwy Sunday 11 to 2:30 Just above Rhea High and Middle School www.rheaheraldnews.com rhea county revealed 17 Preserving Rhea County Heritage World’s Most Famous Courthouse 3COPES¬%VOLUTION¬4RIAL¬ ¬¬¬s¬¬$ECLARED¬A¬.ATIONAL¬,ANDMARK¬ ¬
Publications for sale include • History of Rhea County • Variety of County Records and Genealogical Searches
Get them by mail at: Rhea County Historical Society P.O. Box 31, Dayton, TN 37321
or in person at: The Herald-News 3687 Rhea County Hwy., Dayton
Follow Us On Meetings are 3rd Sunday of January, March, May, July, September and November at the Rhea County Courthouse at 2:30pm. Rhea County History
18 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com Shake Summer Nights the Lake Concert Series Shake the Lake is New in 2018, the “Summer Nights Concert Sseries will Spring City’s Fourth of give area residents a reason to celebrate in June and July 2018 July celebration, normal- with four free concerts in downtown Dayton. ly held at Veterans Park Freedom On June 23, June 30, July 7 and July 14 free concerts featur- during the holiday week- ing a variety of musical styles will be presented on the Rhea end. Fest County Courthouse stage or at Centennial Park across the The festivities typi- FreedomFest is the street from the courthouse. cally begin in the morn- City of Graysville’s Inde- The four nights will have different styles of music — for ing with musical groups pendence Day celebra- example, Gospel, country or classic rock — so there should entertaining visitors to tion, sponsored by the be something everyone can enjoy during Summer Nights. the park, followed by an Graysville Fire Depart- The idea for a summer activity in downtown Dayton has assortment of races and ment and held at the been discussed for several years between members of Main- contests throughout the city’s park, Kristopher’s Street Dayton, the Dayton Chamber of Commerce, down- day, including the annual Kingdom. town merchants and other interested individuals. Mr. and Miss Firecracker The event features Event planners said that with the new stage at the court- Pageant, an informal food, music and water house and the wonderful facilities at Centennial Park, this pageant open to all chil- activities. Fireworks start seemed the right time to start what we hope will become a dren. at about 9:45 p.m., fol- continuing summer event. A fireworks show lowed by more live music In addition to the music, food, refreshment and other begins at dark. and a bonfire. vendors will be invited to set up each night.
atC Neverare Quits
Compassionate skilled nursing, short-term therapy and assisted living services you can count on.
Life Care Center of Rhea County 423.847.6777 • LifeCareCenterOfRheaCounty.com 10055 Rhea County Hwy. • Dayton, TN 37321
Quality Assisted Living • 423.847.1850 TheVerandaAtRheaCounty.com 109062 www.rheaheraldnews.com rhea county revealed 19 Scopes Trial Play and Festival
The annual Scopes evolution in his Rhea Festival commemorates County classroom. His Dayton’s claim to fame prosecutor was the — the Scopes Trial — three-time presidential with old time festivities candidate William Jen- such as antique car nings Bryan, and the shows, vintage films and defense was led by 1920s music. renowned attorney Clar- The Scopes Festival ence Darrow. PumpkinFest takes place in July every Visitors to the festival Pumpkinfest is an annual tradition in downtown year and will be held can get a taste of what Dayton. July 15-17 in 2018. Dayton was like in the The festivities offer children an alternative to tra- The 1925 Scopes Trial 1920s as they watch a ditional Halloween activities that can include kara- is what is called “the play about the trial, shop oke contests, live music, entertainment, prizes, world’s most famous at downtown stores for inflatable bound houses, booths, games, a quilting court trial,” in which “vintage” prices, peruse competition and exhibit, face painting, mini train John T. Scopes was tried craft booths and enjoy rides, a petting zoo and pony rides. for teaching the theory other period tributes. A pumpkin pie eating contest, costume contest and hayrides also highlight the festival as well as a free movie in Centennial Park. Rhea County Fair RHEA AMBULANCE SERVICE, LLC The Rhea County Fair Rhea County. was instituted in 2008 The annual fair has after Rhea County com- even won numerous missioners approached state awards. the University of Tennes- Activities and events see Extension Office with during the fair include the idea of developing an antique car show and the fairgrounds in Evens- parade, horse show, chili ville. cook-off, lawn mower Their efforts turned races, pageants, old tim- into the building of a pic- ers’ day, a patty drop, nic pavilion, youth exhib- inflatable games, conces- 111 Ketchersid Avenue, Spring City, TN 37381 it building and a gazebo, sions and music. 9460 Rhea County Highway, Dayton, TN 37321 along with the property’s The Rhea County Fair original barn, all of which is typically held toward Emergency Number help promote and edu- the end of August or the cate locals about agricul- beginning of Septem- 423-775-2141 tural and rural living in ber. 20 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com VISIT AND SHOP HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DAYTON See all that Downtown Dayton has to offer... Shopping / Dining / Historic Courthouse / Scopes Museum $/7.4/7.¬%6%.43¬s¬302).'¬&,).'¬¬s¬3#/0%3¬42)!,¬&%34)6!,¬s¬&!2-¬4/¬4!",%¬$)..%2 05-0+).&%34¬s¬(/,)$!9¬342/,,¬s¬#(2)34-!3¬!4¬4(%¬#/524(/53%
(ISTORIC¬#OURTHOUSE¬¬-USEUM 0UMPKIN&EST $OWNTOWN¬2EVITALIZATION Visit our website for schedule of events, member and sponsor information: www.mainstreetdayton.org SHOP • LIVE • DINE • ENJOY! Visit the Dayton Virtual Tour: www.ShopMainStreets.com www.rheaheraldnews.com rhea county revealed 21 Dayton Christmas Celebrations Despite the oft-nippy The Rhea-diant Holiday weather, Christmas time brings Celebration is held each year out flocks of locals to enjoy out- in November, at the National door festivities in their towns. Guard Armory in Dayton. Christmas downtown is The celebration features typically held the first weekend unique activities including a in December, along Market VIP Reception, musical enter- Street. Special sales events are tainment, a Holiday Shoppe, Spring City available at downtown stores, photos with Santa and chil- and festival-goers can view art- dren’s activities. Christmas Parade ists’ showcases at several busi- Over 1,100 guests are Spring City offers a Parade of Trees at the His- nesses downtown as well. expected to walk through a Christmas parade on tory Museum Annex and Downtown Dayton hosts winter wonderland filled with Front Street, which fea- vote on their favorite tree photos with Santa Claus. And creatively decorated trees, tures floats, horses and made by Spring City Ele- the highlight of the day is the browse among beautifully school bands. Spectators mentary School stu- horse and carriage Christmas decorated wreaths, tables- can enjoy food and crafts dents. parade, held at 4:30 p.m. and capes, gift baskets and center- the whole day. The parade is usually followed by candlelight carol- pieces as they select those Typically a week before held the second weekend ing in front of the Rhea County items they want to bid on in the Christmas parade, of the month. of Decem- Courthouse. the silent auction. citizensJoin can peruse the ber.us this Sunday!
“A CHURCH FOR RHEA COUNTY THAT LABORS TO ADVANCE THE GOSPEL THROUGHOUT THE NATIONS”
SUNDAY WORSHIP AT 8:30 & 11:00 AM MIDWEEK ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES truth. community.WEDNESDAYS ATmission. 6:30 PM
22 Rhea county Revealed www.RheaheRaldnews.com OUR HISTORY History-lovers from all over the world visit Rhea County to take in the area’s rich past
An act of the Tennessee state constitutional throughout the area. of other denominations state legislature conventions, a U. S. Monmouth Presbyterian who settled in established Rhea County Congressman and an Church, organized in 1820, Washington. in 1807. The Tellico Treaties official holding various constructed the first President Andrew of 1798 and 1805 between local government church building, which Jackson held a land grant European settlers and positions. Rhea was one was shared with members in Washington. Cherokee Native of the founders of Blount Americans ceded various College, later to become Cherokee lands in East the University of Tennessee, opening the Tennessee. frontier. Original boundary lines of Rhea County showed land taken from Washington: the established Roane The beginning County to the east and newly acquired Cherokee of Rhea County lands extending from Early development of Walden’s Ridge to the the county was in the area Hiwassee River. Numerous adjacent to the Tennessee acts, as late as 1889, have River in a planned town adjusted the size of Rhea named Washington. The County cutting out land to town, which was form the county of Meigs established in 1812, was and parts of Hamilton the first seat of county County and moving government. Tennessee individual farms into or Academy, incorporated by out of adjoining counties. an act of 1809 of the state The county was named legislature, opened in DAYTON & for John A. Rhea, an early Washington in 1818, statesman who served as a providing a classical SPRING CITY delegate to the federal and curriculum to students www.rheaheraldnews.com rhea county revealed 23 Judge David Campbell, an early the war, the county was under the for the women and return them to resident of Washington, was a control of Union troops. Productive Rhea County. celebrated Revolutionary War farms in the Tennessee Valley were The judge further reprimanded veteran whose leadership led to a plundered by troops seeking food. the officers for their frivolous actions prominent judicial career, serving Buildings were burned. Neighbors in arresting the women. as a Superior Judge of the State of were divided in their political The town of Washington, which Franklin, the Territory South of the loyalties. had served the county as the center Ohio River and the Supreme Court A group of young women in of government, commerce, of Tennessee. Washington organized a military education and culture during the At the time of his death in 1824, company called The Spartans. early and middle 18th century, Campbell was preparing for a move This female company of exhibited the ravages of war and west to accept President James Confederate sympathizers was not defeat following the Civil War. Madison’s appointment to become involved in combat but rather Reconstruction in Rhea County Superior Court Judge of the provided food, enemy-troop was greatly affected by the route of Southwest Territory in present day information and encouragement to the Cincinnati Southern Railroad. Mississippi. family and friends. The laying of the tracks through A historic roadside marker in The Union army, tired of The the valley towards Chattanooga Washington designates the place of Spartans’ activities, arrested the completely bypassed Washington burial of Judge Campbell. company and had them tried in and ran instead through the area The Civil War was both divisive Chattanooga. where the county’s three and destructive to Rhea County. The Union judge ordered the incorporated towns developed. Military records indicate that a large women to disband and to take an Washington, once thriving and majority of Rhea County’s enlisted oath of allegiance to the country. prosperous, never recovered from men fought for the Confederacy. The same judge ordered the However, from 1863 until the end of arresting officers to provide a meal See HISTORY page 26 Serving Rhea County for Over 100 Years! TOP BRANDS AT REASONABLE PRICES MEXICAN RESTAURANT SEE US STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL WEEK FOR A FREE STRAWBERRY CHIMINANA 4285 Rhea County Highway, Dayton, TN 37321 FURNITURE & RENT-TO-OWN CENTER -!2+%4¬342%%4¬¬s¬¬$/7.4/7.¬$!94/. 423-775-2644 ¬¬s¬¬
24 Rhea county Revealed www.RheaheRaldnews.com 500 Walnut Grove Road Dayton, TN 37321
www.la-z-boy.com www.rheaheraldnews.com Rhea county revealed 25 History CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 the devastation. The town was never rebuilt. Today, only a memorial monument along Highway 30 gives any evidence of the existence of the bustling town of Washington of the 1800’s.
Spring City In the mid 1800’s, Spring City, located in the northern part of the county, was a sparsely populated farming community called Walnut Grove. The fertile land attracted settlers who Downtown Spring City is pictured above in the mid-20th century. expanded the development of the area Several industrial and changed the name of operations also enjoyed the settlement to Spring the benefits of the rail City. The name may have service. been chosen because of Lumber, tanbark, lime, The Award Winning nearby Rhea Springs, flour and furniture were which provided water for exports of the area. the area. Spring City Cannery, RHEA COUNTY FAIR Regularly scheduled Spring City Hosiery Mill Invites you to come visit us stops by the railroad and Southern Silk Mill began in Spring City in were all significant July 31 1880. The convenient employers in the transportation provided development of the area. thru an efficient means of The construction of exporting agricultural Watts Bar Dam by the August 4 products. Tennessee Valley Authority We will be honoring The work of Spring City in the 1940’s marked the farmers was an important highpoint of economic all our VETERANS part of the growing Rhea growth for the Spring City during the fair this year. County strawberry area. The abundance of jobs Come show your support! industry. This area became and the influx of new families a national leader in the greatly impacted the 334 Eagle Lane in Evensville production of strawberries, development of the area. 2018 www.rheacountyfair.com reporting annual exports #1 Fair [email protected] in TN as high as $500,000. See HISTORY page 29
26 Rhea county Revealed www.RheaheRaldnews.com www.rheaheraldnews.com Rhea county revealed 27 I found out Chickam why Lake #7 on auga is rank Bassmaster ed Bass Lakes. Top 100 8lb 1 I landed an 0oz largemo my third ca uth on we’re st. Tomorro Whitney Williams hiking to Po w Rhea County Courthouse Wilderness i cket hidden n search of waterfalls. Dayton, Tennessee
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28 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com with being a major influence in the of pig iron. History growth of the area. Begun in the late 1800’s the CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26 In the 1870’s, railroad officials company employed as many as identified the depot stop as 2,400 individuals. In 1889, the Flood control, electricity Sequatchie. The locals balked, Chattanooga Times reported a daily production and recreational sites changing the name instead to payroll of over $20,000 for the were benefits of the completion of Dayton. company’s operations. Labor the dam. Growth of the Dayton area led to disputes, mining accidents and Today, many enjoy camping and the decision by the county’s deaths of major investors were some fishing on the lakes and shorelines residents to move the seat of county of the many difficulties that led to throughout the Watts Bar area. government from Washington to bankruptcy, sale and eventual Residents profit financially from Dayton. closure of the industry that had the business opportunities provided Rail traffic trumped riverboat provided significant growth to the by the lakes, rivers and shores. transportation, further reducing the Dayton area. prominence of Washington. A remaining company building Additionally, Washington never was later remodeled as a restaurant. recovered from its devastation Customers at Fehn’s 1891 House Dayton during the Civil War. can see the original chalk rail and The history of Dayton began with Rail service was important to the stage used by employees’ children the 1820 purchase of 60 acres of land Dayton Coal and Iron Company, an when the restaurant was a parochial by Massachusetts native, William R. early industry in the Dayton area. school. Smith and the development of a Financial investments from English Agriculture was also important settlement mentioned in 1835 and Scottish entrepreneurs to the town’s economy. Rich land in records as Smith’s Crossroads. purchased land rich with natural the Dayton area grew large crops of Again, the railroad is credited resources needed for the production strawberries. The town designated We Have The Qualified Team You Are Looking For Protecting your family and personal items in Rhea County for the past 86 years!
Check With Us First! BACK ROW: Farmer Charlie, Farrell Davis, Martha Tucker, Kay Allan, Morgan Hartman FRONT ROW: Jake Shaver, Lebron Purser, Jacob Revis, Jeromy Hixson (Not pictured-Greg Walker & Sarah Campbell) !54/äsä(/-%äsä,)&%äsä(%!,4( RHEA COUNTY FARM BUREAU Dayton Spring City 1611 Railroad Street 22576 Rhea Co. Hwy, Suite 7 423-775-9171 423-452-1001 www.fbitn.com www.rheaheraldnews.com rhea county revealed 29 itself as the “Strawberry Capital of the World.” Beginning in 1948, the Dayton Chamber of Commerce has sponsored the annual Tennessee Strawberry Festival to celebrate the harvest. Tomatoes, apples, melons and garden vegetables are dominant crops today. The manufacturing industry has been an important part of the area’s economy. Textiles, polymers, furniture and recreational vehicle components are among major production industries. During 2013 Industry Week recognized the Dayton La-Z-Boy factory as one of the top 10 plants in North America.
Graysville The City of Dayton is pictured above in an aerial photo taken in 1925, the year of the world-famous Scopes Today’s municipality in the Trial. southern part of the county began as a small settlement of farmers. included a state bank, a post office, Africa reportedly helped to turn the The complexion of the settlement train depot, a large brick school, tide for the Allies. was changed by the operation of the hotel, drugstore, barber shop, Cincinnati Southern Railroad restaurant, hosiery mill, doctor’s through Graysville, so named for an office and several churches. early settler, Billy Gray. A short line, which local residents Trail of Tears Three distinctive communities called the “dinky-track,” provided Rhea County played a role in the emerged in Graysville. daily transportation between dark period of American history The Fox heirs opened a coal mine Graysville and Dayton. known as the Trail of Tears. on family property. Though the Two personalities stand out The Indian Removal Act of 1830 company changed owners several among Graysville’s many declared the federal government’s times, the mining community residents. intent to move Native Americans off provided employment and a way of Curly Fox (1910-1995) was of their homelands east of the life for many residents until the celebrated as an American old-time Mississippi. Despite what appeared 1940’s. country fiddler. Live performances to be a favorable ruling by the U.S. Advent Town was settled and throughout the country, radio and Supreme Court, which would have populated by members of the televisions shows and numerous allowed the Indians to retain their Seventh-Day Adventist Church. In records all showcased his musical land, soldiers forced the Natives out addition to the church, an academy talents. He and his wife, Texas Ruby, of their homes and into stockades, serving both local and boarding were members of The Grand Ole where they were held in preparation students and a large sanitarium Opry. for the relocation. were operated in the Adventist The second, Staff Sgt. Clifford Many Cherokees left Red Clay, community. Hambrick, was a highly decorated Tenn., in Bradley County for the The third area was downtown soldier whose heroic actions in the Graysville. In earlier days, the town World War II invasion of North See HISTORY page 32
30 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com GREAT COMMUNITY RHEA GREAT HOSPITAL MEDICAL CENTER OB/GYN FAMILY PRACTICE s¬3TATE OF THE ART¬3URGICAL¬3UITE s¬$R¬-ICHAEL¬3MITH s¬$R¬$ANIEL¬"LACK ¬ ¬ s¬#/,! ACCREDITED¬,ABORATORY s¬$R¬4OM¬"OVINE¬ ORTHOPEDIC s¬!,, $IGITAL¬)MAGING¬$EPARTMENT¬ ¬ s¬$R¬$ALE¬)NGRAM 0%4#4 ¬-2) ¬8 2AY ¬5LTRASOUND s¬$R¬#HRIS¬(ORTON ¬ ¬ s¬$R¬*OHN¬#HROSTOWSKI CT, Bone Density, Nuclear s¬$R¬$AN¬,OGAN¬ ¬ Medicine, Mammography ¬ s¬$R¬,EE¬2ADFORD s¬$R¬-ERCEDES¬0AYNE¬ s¬¬%MERGENCY¬#ARE ¬ ¬ ¬ s¬!LL¬0RIVATE¬0ATIENT¬2OOMS PULMONARY GENERAL SURGERY s¬$R¬!HMAD¬"ACHA s¬3AME $AY¬3URGERY s¬$R¬"ENJAMIN¬+ELLOGG ¬ ¬ s¬0HYSICAL¬4HERAPY s¬$R¬#RAIG¬3WAFFORD¬ PODIATRY ¬ s¬2ESPIRATORY¬4HERAPY s¬$R¬"ILL¬6UONG ¬ s¬3PEECH¬4HERAPY INTERNAL MEDICINE s¬$R¬!LAN¬#REWS s¬)NFUSION¬4HERAPY PEDIATRICS ¬ s¬$R¬*AMES¬.ELSON s¬$R¬.ILADRI¬0ANDA * Pain Management ¬ ¬ ¬ s¬$R¬%VE¬7ADZINSKI s¬(ELIPAD s¬$R¬(AK¬3EO ¬ ¬ PSYCHOLOGY CARDIOLOGY s¬$R¬7ILLIAM¬"OYD¬*R ¬ s¬$R¬7ALTER¬3LEDGE 0($ ¬ ¬
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Rhea Medical Center RMC Specialty Center RMC Physicians Annex 9400 Rhea County Hwy. 7794 Rhea County Hwy. 164 Walnut Grove Church Dayton Suite 103, Dayton Rd., Dayton (423) 775-1121 (423) 775-1901 (423) 570-0018 www.rheaheraldnews.com Rhea county revealed 31 State of Tennessee in 1881 workers and leaders in the of Grandview Normal History for the stated purpose of educational field. Institute in the county’s “being the intellectual and A large number of the history. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 30 moral education and institute’s graduates Today, a drive up the devastating journey west. improvement of the youth became teachers in Rhea mountain to the One of the first of the land.” County public schools. Grandview community challenges was the At the invitation of The American provides many car crossing of the Tennessee Grandview residents, Missionary Association pullouts allowing River at Blythes Ferry, an representatives from the continued to operate the opportunities for seeing established point for American Missionary school until 1919 and the breath-taking view of transportation across the Association arrived in 1884 continued their financial the valley and its river. to assume their support until 1925, the numerous waterways. William Blythes, a responsibilities for year of the last graduating landowner and operating the new class. businessman with educational institution at Educational 1925 Cherokee ancestry, and Grandview, a settlement opportunities for local Scopes Trial his Cherokee wife had on Walden’s Ridge in the students were made established the ferry in northern part of Rhea available by the growth of A few hot July days 1809. County. public schools in Rhea during the summer of 1925 A historic marker on The educational County. produced international Highway 60 acknowledges institution gained the A historic road sign renown for the small the importance of Blythes reputation for providing marker on Highway 68 in southeastern town of Ferry, replaced in 1994 by high quality education in the community of Dayton. a bridge, in moving the an outstanding academic Grandview identifies the The Scopes Trial Cherokees across the setting. location and importance brought world famous River. A three-story structure, Although they were not built in 1895, housed required to move, the classrooms, a library, study Blythes family of Rhea hall and dormitory rooms, County eventually joined providing necessary Smith’s Crossroads, which facilities for boarding and would become Dayton, in local students. 1838 where several Numerous fires in the Cherokees were buried. school’s wooden structures Morgan Springs on heated with wood-burning Walden’s Ridge was stoves resulted in building identified as an overnight and rebuilding on the 154- 137 Florida Avenue camp for Cherokees and acre campus in order to soldiers. provide adequate facilities. Dayton, TN 37321 Graduates of the school Signs on Highway 60, 423.775.5666 Highway 27 and Highway were prepared for [email protected] | www.c21rru.com 30 trace the route of the immediate acceptance as Trail of Tears through Rhea students at the University County. of Tennessee. The name of the school was changed in 1887 to Grandview Normal Grandview Institute in order to more Normal Institute appropriately identify it as Grandview Academy a place for training was incorporated by the teachers, Christian 32 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com lawyers, numerous journalists and spectators to the town. The history of the trial’s beginning is an example of the local people’s ingenuity in responding to problems. In the early 1900s the economy of the area depended heavily on the Dayton Coal and Iron Company. Taking ore from the mines in the Morgantown area provided jobs for many local residents. Additional jobs were available in the company’s offices, the furnace and foundry. A rail system that connected the mines to the foundry and on to the Tennessee River at Bell’s Landing employed more men as the iron ore was changed from the raw product to a saleable good. In 1890, the population of Rhea County was growing and the area was thriving. The historic Scopes Trial drew large crowds to Dayton in 1925. Today, crowds still flock to Dayton each year for the Scopes Trial Play & Festival held each July in the same courthouse where the See HISTORY page 35 historic trial took place.
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34 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com History CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33
By 1925, mining operations were disrupted by explosions in the mines resulting in several deaths, falling market prices and labor strikes. Dayton Coal and Iron Company had changed owners, and efforts to keep the company afloat were failing. The population of the area continued to decline as families moved away looking for work. Mining officials and community leaders were looking for ways to boost the sagging economy. During the hisroic 1925 Scopes Trial, the weather was so hot and the courtroom so crowded, that eventually pro- An event in Nashville ceedings were moved outside onto the courthouse lawn, pictured above. during 1925 seemed to Dayton be the place for provide a possible the test case of the Butler 2392 Possum Trot Road answer. Act. A trial would bring In February of that journalists and visitors to Grandview, TN 37337 year, the Tennessee state the town with tourist 423-365-4412 legislature had passed dollars for immediate the Butler Act, forbidding use. Text 423-618-1932 the teaching of evolution Perhaps the publicity in the public schools. given to the town would Relax John Butler, a legislator show the area’s strengths from Middle Tennessee and convince an Explore had become concerned entrepreneur to consider Unwind about students being an investment in Two miles from taught scientific theory, Dayton. which contradicted his Historical accounts Piney Water understanding of biblical indicate that it was not a Falls State Area teaching. Soon after the concern over the question 70+ Five Star legislation was signed by of creation versus Reviews! the governor, the evolution that brought American Civil Liberties the Scope’s Trial to LIKE US ON Union advertised Dayton. financial support for an When the trial came to individual who would Dayton, with it came test the law. George William Jennings Bryan Rappleyea, a mining and Clarence Darrow, www.grandviewmountaincottages.com official, suggested that two nationally known www.rheaheraldnews.com rhea county revealed 35 figures of the day. Bryan died in Dayton educationally and contains an art treasure John T. Scopes, a first- during an afternoon culturally, beginning in from the New Deal year teacher at Rhea nap. the 1930’s and continuing cultural arts program of Central High, agreed to The people of Dayton through today. the 1930’s and ‘40’s. be prosecuted for the had developed a love for The mining operations In an attempt to revive teaching of evolution. Mr. Bryan and wanted to of Dayton Coal and Iron the nation’s depression- It is questionable memorialize him. ceased. A portion of the ridden economy, whether Scopes actually Through the efforts of company’s land was numerous types of taught evolution since he many across the nation, a given to the State of employment were was primarily a math school based on the Tennessee and became a funded. The federal teacher, and the idea for teaching of Christian part of Laurel-Snow State government’s fine arts the test case came after principles was Natural Area, a scenic project of the Works the ending of the school established in Dayton. area providing beautiful Progress Administration year; nonetheless, Scopes The school enrolled its hiking trails. authorized the creation admitted that he had first class in 1930. The Rhea County of murals for post offices, taught evolution and was Bryan College became Courthouse, site of the courthouses and other convicted of breaking the the economic boost the trial, was designated as a public buildings. law. leaders of 1925 were National Historic Commissioned art It was Mr. Darrow’s seeking. The 2005 Landmark in 1976 by the work for public buildings intent to appeal the economic impact National Park Service. A highlighted scenes of the conviction in hopes of statement of the college museum in the basement region, historical events bringing about a change reported an annual of the courthouse significant to the area or in the law. A technicality impact of $40 million on features personalities, New Deal projects. in court procedure the economy of the area events and memorabilia A mural painted by stemming from the judge resulting from the of the Scopes Trial. The Bertram Hartman in 1937 setting Scope’s fine led to operation of the courtroom used for the can be seen on the east the case being thrown educational institution. 1925 trial is available to wall of the municipal out. The establishment of visitors when court is not building, previously the The days following the Bryan College, a direct in session. In addition, Dayton Post Office. trial had an even greater result of the trial, has the museum has rotating The artist depicted on impact on the future of greatly impacted the exhibits of various canvas the view from Dayton. William Jennings community economically, aspects of local history. Johnson’s Bluff on The courthouse lawn Walden’s Ridge in Rhea is the hub for the annual County. Scopes Festival, featuring The scene of a courtroom play, local picnickers overlooking tours, folk music and the fields of Cranmore related booths. Held Cove with Dayton in the during the third weekend distance captured the of July, the festival is an look of life in Rhea event which encourages County during the celebration of the area’s 1930’s. history and heritage. While many of the New Deal murals have been destroyed during Dayton’s expansions and renovations, Dayton has New Deal Art preserved its art treasure A City of Dayton as a testament to the rich municipal building and diverse heritage of The entrance to the Rhea County Courthouse is pictured above at the located on Main Street the area. time of 1925 Scopes Trial. 36 Rhea county revealed www.rheaheraldnews.com www.daytontnchamber.org
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Facebook Twitter Instagram 423-664-9494 423-428-9441 38 RHEARhea COUNTYcounty RrEVEALEDevealed www.WWW.rRheaheHEAHErRaldnews.comALDNEWS.COM EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION — EMERGENCY DIAL 911— Law enforcement Dayton Police Dept. Spring City Police Tennessee CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE 1191 Market St., Dayton Department Highway Patrol 775-8403 229 Front St., Spring City 634-6898 Dayton Chamber 365-6225 of Commerce Graysville Police Watts Bar Nuclear Plant 107 Main Street Department Sheriff’s Department Site Security: 365-8544 Dayton, TN, 37321 136 Harrison Ave., 444 Second Avenue, Phone: (423) 775-0361 Graysville Dayton TVA Police 775-9242 775-7837 751-3783 Spring City Chamber of Commerce 390 Front Street Fire and rescue Spring City, TN, 37381 Dayton Fire Spring City Fire Phone: (423) 365-5210 Department Department 1169 Market St., Dayton 241 Front St., Spring City Rhea County 775-8402 365-6441 Rescue Squad Rhea Economic and Spring City (Unit 500) Tourism Council Graysville Fire Rhea County Volunteer Phone: 365-6029 107 Main Street Department Fire Department Dayton (Unit 600) Dayton, TN, 37321 136 Harrison Ave., 8860 Back Valley Rd., Phone: 775-5031 Phone: (423) 775-6171 Graysville Evensville 775-3151 775-2505
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