Discover MORGAN COUNTY 2021
A Special Supplement to the
April 2021
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Discover MORGAN COUNTY 2021
DISCOVER MORGAN COUNTY TABLE OF CONTENTS Base Camp Wartburg.............................................................................31 City/Town Information ........................................................................9-10 County Commissioners ..........................................................................23 County Information/Welcome Letter ........................................................4 Elected Officials/Office Holders ........................................................16-19 Emergency Services ..............................................................................15 Non-Profit/Community Resources .........................................................39
PUBLIC EDUCATION/LITERACY Morgan County Board of Education........................................................23 Morgan County Public Libraries .............................................................23 Morgan County Schools ................................................................... 21-22
Photo by Jennie L. Chevalier
SPECIAL THANKS TO RECREATION & TOURISM Big South Fork .......................................................................................35 Frozen Head State Park ...........................................................................5 Morgan County Tourism Alliance............................................................ 11 Obed Wild & Scenic .................................................................................6 The Cumberland Trail.............................................................................37 Tour Brushy Mountain ............................................................................33 More Discoveries in Morgan County................................................. 25-26 Adventure: Just A Hop, Skip and Jump Away ................................... 28-29
Jennie Chevalier Morgan County News for the cover photos, content and additional photos Patti Gaston for layout and design
CONTRIBUTORS Morgan County News wishes to acknowledge Jennie Chevalier and Patti Gaston of Morgan County News for their assistance in publication of this special section.
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS A Little Closer to Heaven Primitive Treehouse ............................. 20 American Legion Post #149 .......................................................... 7 Citizens Gas Utility District .......................................................... 38 Crabtree Public Accounting ......................................................... 32 Creekside Cabin ......................................................................... 32 Cumberland Mountain General Store .......................................... 14 Davis Funeral Home ............................................... (Back Cover) 40 Davis Insurance .......................................................................... 14 Debbie Lively, Realty Executives ................................................... 8 Dr. Jonathan Laymance, Summit Medical Group ......................... 38 Farm Bureau Insurance .............................................................. 34 Grey Gables Bed & Breakfast ........................................................ 8 Highland Communications .......................................................... 30 Highland Manor Winery............................................................... 34 Highland Telephone Cooperative (HTC)… ..................................... 8 Life Care Center of Morgan County ............................................ 36 MBM Heating & Air ..................................................................... 24 Morgan County Animal Hospital .................................................... 8 Morgan County Correctional Complex (MCCX) ............................ 24 Morgan County EMA ....................................................................12 Morgan County Headstart ........................................................... 20 Morgan County Tourism Alliance (MCTA) .................................... 36 Morgan County Trustee, Cindi Jones........................................... 20
Morgan Pro Hardware................................................................. 30 Plateau Electric Cooperative (PEC).............................................. 14 Plateau Utility ............................................................................. 24 Potters Ace Hardware ..................................................................12 Premier Physical Therapy ............................................................. 7 Quality Family of Companies ......................................................... 7 Ridgeview Behavioral Health Services ........................................ 36 RM Brooks Store ........................................................................ 20 Roane State Community College ................................................. 38 Rock-a-Billy Diner....................................................................... 14 Sawbriar Brewing Company........................................................ 34 Schubert Funeral Home .............................................................. 38 SmartBank ................................................................................. 20 Spa Builders of Tennessee .......................................................... 27 State Representative, John Mark Windle..................................... 22 Tennier Industries LLC .................................................................12 Tour Brushy Mountain ..................................................................13 Tracey Vought Williams, Atty ....................................................... 30 Upland Villages ........................................................................... 34 Veteran Service Office .................................................................. 7 Wartburg Body Shop................................................................... 32 Wartburg Speedway ................................................................... 32
Discover MORGAN COUNTY 2021
OH...THE PLACES TO GO AND THE THINGS TO SEE Photos by Jennie L. Chevalier
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WELCOME from Morgan County Executive Brian Langley
Brian Langley Morgan County Executive As County Executive, I want to welcome you to Morgan County, TN. It is my honor to serve such a beautiful county filled with wonderful and caring people. The imagination is the limit when it comes to outdoor experiences you can enjoy here. Whether it be hiking, kayaking, endurance running, rock climbing, historical investigation, hunting, horseback riding, fishing, motorcycle riding, bird watching, rafting – Morgan County has it all and much more. From our beautiful National and State parks, to Wildlife Management Areas, to Private owned outdoor areas, to historic landmarks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Come visit us today and see what everyone is talking about.
DISCOVER MORGAN COUNTY Morgan County is a county located in the U.S. State of Tennessee. As of the 2017 census, the population was 21,636. Its county seat is Wartburg. Morgan County was formed in 1817 from portions of Anderson and Roane counties. It was named in honor of Daniel Morgan (1736– 1802), an American Revolutionary War officer who commanded the troops that defeated the British at the Battle of Cowpens, and who later served as a U.S. congressman from Virginia. The county had been part of lands relinquished by the Cherokee with the signing of the Third Treaty of Tellico in 1805. The original county seat was Montgomery until 1870, when it was moved to Wartburg. The county, which lies on the eastern edge of the Cumberland Plateau, is known for its rugged mountain terrain, and cold mountain streams and rivers. The Crab Orchard Mountains comprise a large area of the county, which includes several designated wilderness areas, Frozen Head State Park, and Lone Mountain State Forest. The Emory River rises on the slopes of Bird Mountain near Wartburg. The Obed River, a designated national wild and scenic river, empties into the Emory southwest of Wartburg. The Clear Fork, which forms part of Morgan’s boundary with Fentress County, joins the New River in Scott County to the north to form the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. The Cumberland Trail passes through Morgan County.
Photo by Jennie L. Chevalier
Discover MORGAN COUNTY 2021
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DISCOVER FROZEN HEAD STATE PARK
ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY JENNIE CHEVALIER Frozen Head State Park is situated in the beautiful Cumberland Mountains Frozen Head State Park. of Eastern Tennessee right here in Morgan County. The park covers a total of Winter is an important season to the park because that is the season 24,400 acres of relatively undisturbed forest. during which the park earned its name Frozen Head. During Winter the 16 In 1894 the state acquired a large area for the Brushy Mountain Prison. peaks it boasts above 3000 feet become enveloped by fog which settles Coal was deep mined by inmates and the trees were harvested for timbers to then freezes. The trees become covered in ice and then the heads of the support the mines. Still today you can take a hike along the Old Prison Mine mountains are frosted in winter beauty. Trail and see the remaining mine shaft entrances, buildings and even a guard “Winter time is how Frozen Head State Park gained its namesake,” Ingram shack. The land was transferred to the State Park system in 1970 hence said. “Because the head of the mountain becomes frozen over, icicles are bringing Frozen Head State Park to Morgan County residents and visitors. formed throughout the park and the waterfalls become frozen over.” Park Manager Jacob Ingram has been excited to work with the staff at the 2020 saw lots of changes to Frozen Head State Park with upgrades in park along with meeting and working with a variety of community members, facilities such as the stage and ampitheatre area, the Emory room and more. organizations and visitors alike. With COVID-19 the park saw a significant increase due to people wanting to “The staff at Frozen Head State Park is unbelievable,” Ingram said. get outside and not gather in large groups. Many months in 2020 saw double “We have been working on building stronger community partnerships with the previous year’s attendance for park visitors. organizations and community members alike. Another focus has been on Frozen Head State Park will continue to move forward with new and reminding everyone that we are here to first and foremost educate visitors. Helping visitors understand the importance of why everyone needs to updated programs, facility upgrades and more as they received several grants that have provided funding for educating the local youth, providing continue to protect the area and its resources.” trail building opportunities for youth and more. With the ARC Grant specifically In 2020 Frozen Head State Park was awarded Tennessee State Park of students will help with the completion of the Cumberland Trail from Frozen the Year. This is the highest achievement for any park in the state. Ingram Head State Park to Wartburg. This extension will take approximately 2 years said this award means more than just showcasing their work but also shows to complete. how the community has come together to support their efforts. Frozen Head State Park offers a wide variety of opportunities for any “I have had several people in town since we announced winning this outdoor enthusiast. Any visitor can enjoy the natural beauty this park has award stop me,” Ingram said. “They tell me how proud they are about the award and that their park won. I think the win definitely helped the number of to offer by exploring more than 50 miles of hiking trails or biking trail along visitors grow as more people found out about the hidden gem we have here.” the 6.9 mile Lookout Tower Trail. For horseback access call the park office. In addition the park also offers swimming, hunting and fishing. Each Spring Spring at the park displays some of the best showy wildflowers in the the park releases a large number of rainbow trout into Flat Fork Creek to state. Some visitors say the park’s wildflower sites are so rich in diversity encourage fishing enthusiasts to visit. Along the foot trails that meander that it rivals those of the Great Smoky Mountains. Frozen Head State Park through the park you will come upon waterfalls, rock shelters and giant has cataloged more than 400 plant species within the park. mountaintop cap rocks. A portion of the Cumberland Trail passes through “Frozen Head State Park is the outdoor and hiking enthusiast paradise,” the park. The park has twenty rustic campsites, group campsites, picnic Ingram said. “Or for those looking for a backpacking adventure, they can pavilions, playgrounds, amphitheater, library and gift shop. All campsites are available year-round. leisurely stroll through the wildflowers each Spring.” To start off 2021 the Tennessee State Parks held a donation drive for Summer brings a wide variety of visitors who are camping, brings families together for celebrations and enjoying vacation and also a great time to take individuals to donate to their favorite state park over the course of a few months. At the end of this donation drive Frozen Head State Park finished in the creek and hike to the multiple waterfalls. second showing the support and love that visitors and the local community There are about 130 species of birds documented in the county. The have for it. Audubon Society has listed the park as a Globally Significant Important Bird “I just want to say thank you to everyone in Morgan County and Area because of the Cerulean Warbler. At higher elevations above 2,000 feet there are birds that nest in the park that cannot be found anywhere else in surrounding areas for their generosity in showing support for Frozen Head the county, such as the Canada Warbler and the Black Throated Blue Warbler. State Park,” Ingram said. “We will also continue to work on projects and increase programs and more to further enhance the visitor experience.” Fall brings all of the vibrant beauty of the leaves changing color, which For more information visit http://tnstateparks.com/parks/about/frozenattracts a large number of visitors, both locally and from afar. This season is also one of the most impressive seasons to hike one of the many trails of head or call (423) 346-3318.
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DISCOVER OBED WILD & SCENIC RIVER
ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY JENNIE CHEVALIER
Obed Wild & Scenic River is an outdoor enthusiasts dream. This area offers everything from hiking, whitewater rafting and even rock climbing. It is abundant with high adventure but is also the home of some of the most beautiful relaxing walking and hiking trails in Morgan County. The Lilly Bluff area has four hiking trails that offer a variety of sights to see and explore. The Point Trail, which is the longest of the area, ends atop a bluff that overlooks the rushing waters of the Obed and Clear Creek confluence. Along this trail you will be able to take in the beauty of the Lilly Arch. This arch is one of the most unique rock features within Obed. It is made out of Pennsylvanian sandstone and was used for shelter by earlier settlers and American Indians. You can also explore the Boulder Trail. Living up to its name, this area of the Obed you wind through a variety of hiking trails that showcases boulders, large boulder walls and boulder formations. The Bridge Trail takes you from the bridge that crosses the river up to the overlook and to additional trailheads. On the Bridge Trail you experience a variety of terrain, rock formations and features. It is a breathtaking hike, but also one of the more challenging trails of the Obed. The most visited and a must see for the Obed Wild & Scenic River is the Lilly Bluff Overlook Trail. This leads visitors out to a magnificent overlook that showcases the spectacular views the park has to offer. “Visitation in the park has remained steady,” Chief Ranger Matt Hudson said. “For a lot of people, even towards the Knoxville area, the Obed is closer than the Great Smoky Mountains and provides people and families with a wonderful chance to not have to fight the crowds.” You can look down into the canyon and witness the rushing of Clear Creek. Across the valley from the overlook, you can take in the lush tree lines and also might get the opportunity to see some birds that are native to this area of Morgan County. The Nemo area of the Obed also has two hiking trails to explore, the two mile Nature Loop and the Cumberland Trail. This area is anchored by the Nemo Bridge that was built in 1930-31. The Nemo Bridge was the first iron structure to cross the river when it was built. Since then it has been replaced with a cement bridge. The original Nemo Bridge was left standing for visitors to enjoy and take in a view from above the waters of the Obed. “One of the long-range goals of the Emory River is to expand the trail system in order to give visitors and residents the opportunity to enjoy even more beauty this area has to offer,” Hudson said. Whitewater rafting and rock climbing in this area provides an element of excitement for those seeking adventure. There are 45.2 river miles in the Obed Wild & Scenic River System. The river system includes the Obed River,
Clear Creek, 2.5 miles of Daddy’s Creek and two miles of the Emory River. Visitors have traveled from all over the United States for the whitewater rafting and visitors from around the world are drawn to the area for rock climbing. Whitewater rafting clubs in the area, along with park programs, such as Paddling with a Ranger, give visitors the opportunity to learn how to safely navigate these waters. Obed Wild & Scenic River also offers the Climb with a Ranger program which is held on the first Saturday of each month. This program is free and offered to beginning and advanced rock climbers of all ages. Hudson encourages even local community members to come out and enjoy their local park through this program and others they offer. In 2017 the Obed Wild & Scenic River was designated as an International Dark Sky Park. The Obed is only the second park east of the Colorado to receive such a designation. The night sky programs that had begun since the parks designation have continued to expand and bring in large groups of visitors and continues to be successful. Since 2020, the park like many others, saw an increase in visitation not only through the weekends but also the weekdays too. Visitors were trying to get out as indoor recreation opportunities were closed or limited. Hudson said they saw many first-time visitors to Obed Wild & Scenic River and that is exciting in the hopes they will continue to visit in the years to come. One new program to the Obed Wild & Scenic River is the Bark Ranger program. The Bark Ranger program teaches dog owners about the importance of following some basic guidelines while hiking with their furry friend to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience in the park. Bark stands for: B = Bag your poop; A = Always wear a leash; R = Always respect wildlife and K = Know where to go. Any dog that completes this short program will be sworn in as a BARK Ranger and will be eligible to earn a special collar tag at the visitors center. Another new exciting program added to the Obed Wild & Scenic River is the Fish with a Ranger program. This program will allow kids to meet with a ranger at a designated fishing area such as Nemo and learn more about fishing, how to fish and more while taking some time to actually catch some fish. Hudson is going into his 20th year with the Obed Wild & Scenic River and he feels like the park itself has become part of who he is and believes that even visitors can take a piece of their visit home with them when they leave too. “I was walking on the Bridge Trail a little while back and was just taking in the scenery, Melton Mills waterfall and realizing just how beautiful this area still is to me,” Hudson said. “I don’t know how many times I have walked this trail, but this place does become a part of you and I am so blessed for it to be a part of who I am today. I think that the sense of wilderness visitors can experience when they are here by not even having to travel that far away from civilization makes it even that much more special. Myself and visitors can feel like you are just away from everything.”
Discover MORGAN COUNTY 2021
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202 S Kingston Street Wartburg, TN 37887 423-215-1734 morgancountyvso@msn.com
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Morgan County Animal Hospital A Full Service Veterinary Hospital Linda Cassens James, DVM Jessica Smith Traub, DVM Danielle Radny, DVM
www.morgancountyvet.com
1951 Knoxville Hwy • Wartburg, TN 37887 • 423-346-VETS (8387)
morgancountyanimalhospital@gmail.com
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CITY OF WARTBURG
The city of Wartburg is located in Morgan County, Tennessee. The population was 902 at the 2017 census. It is the county seat
Mayor Jonathan Dagley, wife Meghan & children Preslyn, Jonalyn and Jonathan Creed
of Morgan County. In 1805, the Cherokee ceded what is now
City of Wartburg
Morgan County to the United States by signing the Third Treaty
407 Eliza St. P.O. Box 386 Wartburg, TN 37887 Phone: 423-346-2323 Fax: 423-346-2262 Mayor: Jonathan Dagley Aldermen: Bacel Gunter, Phil Vespie City recorder: Courtney Collins Meetings are the second Monday of every month at 7:00 p.m. in the Conference room at City Hall Police Chief: Teddy Bales Wartburg Police Dept . 423-346-7090 407 Eliza St. Wartburg, TN 37887
of Tellico. The first settlers arrived in the area shortly thereafter. The city is situated amidst the Crab Orchard Mountains, a subrange of the Cumberland Mountains, near the eastern edge of the Cumberland Plateau. Bird Mountain dominates the area east of Wartburg, rising from its base at the edge of the city and stretching for some 10 miles to its 3,142-foot summit at Frozen Head State Park. The Emory River, its source near the summit of Bird, flows westwardly along the mountain’s northern base, passing just north of Wartburg, and turning south before dropping off the plateau and emptying into the Watts Bar Lake impoundment of the Tennessee River. The Obed River flows eastwardly from Cumberland County through a scenic gorge before emptying into the Emory just west of Wartburg. Wartburg is situated around the junction of U.S. Route 27, which connects the city to Kentucky to the north and Harriman and Interstate 40 to the south, and State Route 62, which connects Wartburg to Oak Ridge to the east and the rural areas of Morgan County and Fentress County to the west.
Photo by Jennie L. Chevalier
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CITY OF SUNBRIGHT The city of Sunbright is located in Morgan County, Tennessee. The population was 535 in 2017. Sunbright is surrounded by low mountains and hills that comprise the fringe of the Cumberland Mountains. White Oak Creek, which drains Sunbright, is part of the upper watershed of the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. The Big South Fork’s watershed meets the watershed of the Emory River atop Pilot Mountain, immediately south of Sunbright. Sunbright is centered along U.S. Route 27, which connects the city to Wartburg and Harriman to the south and Huntsville, Tennessee and Lexington, Kentucky to the north. US-27 intersects Interstate 40 approximately 25 miles (40 km) south of Sunbright. City Council: Darryl Jennings and Buddy Tharp
City of Sunbright 120 Melton Drive
Secretary: Darlene Wallace
PO Box 188
Maintenance: Russell Jones
Sunbright,Tn 37872 Recorder: Cheryl Collins Tel: 423-628-5260 Fax: 423-628-2832 email: citygovsb@highland.net Photo by Jennie L. Chevalier
Mayor: Karen Melton
Sunbright City meetings are held the third Tuesday of every month at City Hall.
TOWN OF OAKDALE The town of Oakdale is located along the Emory River in Morgan County, Tennessee. The population was 216 at the 2015 census. The town is situated along the Emory River (between river miles 17 and 19) in a relatively hilly area atop the Cumberland Plateau, and is concentrated primarily in two areas on each side of the river. The western side is located along a slope that descends from State Route 299 to a flood plain along the river, and includes the town hall, fire department, and several houses. The eastern side is located in a hollow just north of SR 299, and includes a post office, park, and several more houses. State routes 299 and 328 intersect at the town’s southern boundary. SR 328, which lies east of the river, connects the town with Harriman to the south and US 27 to the north. SR 299, which crosses the river, connects the town to I-40 and the Westel area in Cumberland County to the southwest. Aldermen: Wolfgang Roberson and Danielle McKenzie
Town of Oakdale 204 Queen Street
Office/Town Clerk: Tammy Helton
PO Box 116
Photo by Jennie L. Chevalier
Oakdale, TN 37829
Adminstrator Assistant: Jeannie Miller
Phone: (423) 369-4400
Town Recorder: Monica Miller
Fax: (423) 346-2262
Town Attorney: Diane Biddle Mayor: Buddy Miller
Meetings are the first Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m.
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MORGAN COUNTY TOURISM ALLIANCE
ARTICLE BY JENNIE CHEVALIER The Morgan County Tourism Alliance (MCTA) got its start with a group of individuals, business leaders and community members who saw a need to help build the economy of Morgan County. Five years from its beginning the volunteer tourism organization received three of five Excellence in Tourism awards at the regional legislative luncheon hosted by The Middle East Tennessee Tourism Council and Greater Knoxville Hospitality Association in. Mark Keck, Morgan County Tourism Alliance chairman, said the group truly got its start when local community members realized that big businesses were not going to come to the area, yet the economy of Morgan County needed to grow. “What better way than to capitalize on all of the natural beauty and natural areas Morgan County has to offer,” Keck said. “A lot of people in the community, including myself in some cases, didn’t even realize that we had such wonderful resources and events already to build on. People come from all over the world to participate in the Barkley race. The Lilly Bluff area of the Obed Wild and Scenic River is nationally ranked for rock climbing and more.” Keck said tourism today is a marketable industry, and the tourism alliance was started to remind everyone, local community members and visitors alike, what Morgan County has to offer. The main effort MCTA puts forth is awareness, getting the word out. The group stays in contact with and receives feedback from area parks, the visitors center, trade shows and through multiple social media outlets. They truly are striving for an increase in visitation to all areas of Morgan County to help strengthen the local economy. Keck said that he is amazed by the response. “I am awed at what everyone involved has accomplished and how we all strive to reach a common goal,” Keck said. “They are building great relationships in the local community, and it is just heavenly to lead a group of people like that.” MCTA has accomplished many things in its short time since late 2014. The group has applied for many grants and with those received has accomplished many goals they had set. Several projects have been completed because of MCTA’s commitment to the community such as the revitalization of the Wartburg Central High School Amphitheater, the connector trail from the Morgan County Visitors Center to the high school, the completion of a walking trail connecting the Sheltowee Trace trail into Morgan County, the building of a gazebo in Sunbright and many others. In addition the first Tennessee Music Pathways was awarded in honor of Clarence Beeks, known as King Pleasure who was born in Oakdale. Since MCTA acquired and purchased the historical Tanner’s Store in downtown Wartburg the group has been making strides in its’ restoration. Since last year MCTA has replaced flooring in the building, removed and currently remodeling the kitchen area, installed new HVAC systems and more. Monthly MCTA hosts a Tanner’s Take Out, a lunch fundraiser, to help to continue to raise funds for the buildings restoration and preservation. During these monthly lunches visitors can also stop in and see the progress in the building, pick-up brochures of nearby places and things to do or
purchase MCTA items to help support the cost of this project. The building is listed as a historical structure. The tourism alliance is hopeful the building will be used for a community gathering place and for those who are passing through such as hikers on the Cumberland Trail. MCTA is funded through some grants it has received, but mostly from donations and also fundraising efforts on its part such as barn dances, jewelry sales, food events, football community events and their largest event the Tennessee Mountain Laurel Festival. The Tennessee Mountain Laurel Festival is held every year the third Saturday in May. This event includes a large number of vendors and crafters, a kids zone, food, music, 5K runs and much more. Make plans to attend annually. Another annual addition to the festival and fundraising efforts is Christmas on the Square which is held in December to bring out special artisans and crafters so visitors can pick up one-of-a-kind gift items. The 2021 year will also see some new events such as a fun run MOCO Color Blast Dash. Linda Brooks Jones, public relations officer for the Morgan County Tourism Alliance, said that the group’s decision making is based on what members think might be best for the county. “As an organization we want to bring attention to all areas of the county,” Jones said. “We want to help each community develop to their full potential in tourism and economic growth. We want to work together for a common cause.” Keck said the group wants community members and local cities and towns to reach out to MCTA as a resource. “There is no such thing as too much communication,” Keck said. “We want to encourage anyone to get in touch with us if they think we can help them achieve the common goal of bringing tourism and economic growth to our communities.” The one thing that Keck would really like everyone to truly understand about the Morgan County Tourism Alliance is that it is all volunteer. Everyone who participates in this association is putting in time of their own while not expecting anything in return except for success for the local Morgan County communities and its economic growth. “They all love and have a great appreciation for the community they live in,” Keck said. “We have adapted, improvised and overcame obstacles with the sole purpose to succeed.” For more information or to become a part of the Morgan County Tourism Alliance they encourage anyone interested to attend one of their meetings. Event information may be out of date due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19). Confirm details with event organizers and businesses. More information can also be found by visiting www.seemorgancountytn.com or www.mctamoco. com.
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12 WAYS TO PREPARE FOR AN EMERGENCY Sign up for Alerts and Warnings
Make a Plan
Save for a Rainy Day
Practice Emergency Drills
Test Family Communication Plan
Safeguard Documents
Plan With Neighbors
Make Your Home Safer
The best brands are in your neighborhood Assemble or Know Evacuation Update Supplies Routes
Get Involved in Your Community
Document and Insure Property
Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit: Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation • Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both • Flashlight and extra batteries • First aid kit •Whistle to signal for help • Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place • Moist towlettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities • Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food • Local maps
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Plateau Electric Cooperative was formed in 1939 as a member-owned cooperative. PEC serves approximately 1,770 line miles and 17,225 meters served.
DAVIS INSURANCE Allen G. Davis
Jennifer Davis Ridge
Owner/Insurance Specialist allendavisinsurance@gmail.com
Customer Service Representative /Agent jridge.davisinsurance@gmail.com
Along with all your standard needs, we can provide insurance for outside activity vehicles. Serving Scott and Morgan Counties Since 1939
RVs • RZRs • Motorcycles • 4-Wheelers • Boats
PEC exists today to distribute quality electricity at the lowest possible cost, promote and facilitate economic development, and enhance the quality of life for its members.
825 Spring Street Wartburg, TN 37887 423-346-3699 316 Eliza Street • P.O. Box 1130 Wartburg, TN 37887
www.plateauelectric.com
423.346.4978 Fax: 423.346.4998
Mon.-Fri. 9am-5pm
CUMBERLAND MOUNTAIN GENERAL STORE 50’s Soda Fountain
Old Fashioned Milkshakes Root Beer & Coke Floats Hand Dipped Ice Cream Old Fashioned Sundaes Hot Fudge Double Chocolate Chip Brownies World Famous Banana Splits Elvis Mudslide Sundaes
The Cumberland Mountain General Store, with its original 1923 fixtures, offers old-time merchandise for sale at “old-time” prices!
Rock-A-Billy Diner
Antique Furniture, Glassware, Crocks, Quilts, Lamps, Cast Iron, Tools, Advertising Primitives, Country Collectibles, Flour & Feed Sacks, Jams, Jellies, Homemade Fudge, Tennessee Souvenirs, Plus Counters and Shelves Filled with “Good Ole Stuff” from days gone by.
@cumberlandmt.general@ rock_billydiner
6807 South York Hwy Clarkrange, TN 931.863.3880 931.397.3731
Old Fashioned Faash shio one ned d Burger Burgerr “Hound Dog” Hot Dog Fried Sweet Hickory Bologna Pork Tenderloin Sandwich Grilled Chicken Sandwich Chicken Nuggets Old Fashioned French Fries Onion Rings
CUMBERLAND MOUNTAIN GENERAL STORE Cumberland-MountainGeneral-Store
cumberlandmountaingeneralstore.net todd@cumberlandmountaingeneralstore.net
6807 South York Hwy • Clarkrange, TN www.cumberlndmountaingeneralstore.net facebook.com/Cumberland-Mountan-General-Store 931.863.3880 ~ 931.397.3731 todd@cumberlandmountaingeneralstore.net
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EMERGENCY SERVICES Morgan County E-911
Clear Fork Fire Department
Director Matthew Brown 274 Ralph Hamby Road Wartburg, TN (423) 346-0911
Chief Gerald Handwright (865) 201-2472 Rugby Parkway, Rugby, TN (423) 627-4182
Morgan County Emergency Management & Homeland Security
Oakdale Fire Department
Director Jody Zorsch 274 Ralph Hamby Road Wartburg, TN (423) 346-1003
Chief Preston Hamby (865) 603-7223 214 Queen Street Oakdale, TN (423) 369-3345
Morgan County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff Wayne Potter 414 Main Street Wartburg, TN (423) 346-6262
Morgan County Ambulance Service Director Doug Lamance 228 Flat Fork Road Wartburg, TN (423) 346-6601 or 6602
Morgan County Rescue Squad Capt. Neil Noe 611 Buxton Lane Wartburg, TN (423) 346-3136
Wartburg Fire Department Chief Glen Moore (423) 539-4969 408 S. Kingston Street Wartburg, TN (423) 346-7667
Petros Fire Department Chief Denise Brock (865) 748-1436 9387 Petros Highway Petros, TN (423) 324-5802
Deer Lodge Fire Department Chief Roy Baer (423) 319-8740 402 Old Deer Lodge Pike Deer Lodge, TN (423) 965-3080
Coalfield Fire Department Chief James Godwin (865) 335-4914 122 Jerry Jones Road Coalfield, TN (865) 435-0130
Chestnut Ridge Volunteer Fire Department Chief Charles Matheson (423) 627-7972 4744 Nashville Highway Deer Lodge, TN (423) 965-3922
Joyner Fire Department Chief Chad Sills (865) 776-7727 3729 Knoxville Highway Oliver Springs, TN (423) 324-5802
Burrville Volunteer Fire Department
Sunbright Volunteer Fire Department
Chief Richard McCann (423) 319-6381 105 Burrville Road Sunbright, TN (423) 628-5170
Chief Joey Stringfield (423) 223-1623 130 Melton Drive Sunbright, TN (423) 628-5316
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ELECTED OFFICIALS & OFFICE HOLDERS Tennessee Senator Ken Yager, Republican P. O. Box 684 900 Waterford Place Kingston, TN 37763 Phone: 615-741-1449 Fax: 615-253-0237 http://www.kenyager.com/ sen.ken.yager@capitol.tn.gov
Tennessee Representative John Mark Windle, Democrat P. O. Box 707 Livingston, TN 38570 Phone: 931-823-8340 http://www.capitol.tn.gov/house/ members/h4l.html rep.john.windle@capitol.tn.gov
Morgan County Executive Brian Langley 423-346-6288 Acts as fiscal agent for the county; prepares and administers county budget; audits bill for accuracy; oversees county purchases for all departments; acts as chief administrator for the county maintains all county property except schools; and my contractually bind the county. The county executive’s office is on the third floor of the courthouse. The county executive is elected to a four-year term.
Morgan County Judge General Sessions Court
Mike Davis 423-346-6943
Photo by Jennie L. Chevalier
Issues civil warrants for small claims court (under $10,000), handles misdemeanors, traffic court and preliminary hearings for felonies as well as some divorces and custody cases. Also sits as judge of the juvenile court. The General Sessions Judge’s Office is in the Courthouse Annex building. The General Sessions Judge is elected to an eight year term.
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ELECTED OFFICIALS & OFFICE HOLDERS County Clerk
Trustee
Property Assessor
Cheryl L. Collins 423-346-3480
Cindi Jones 423-346-3430
Biff Wilson 423-346-3130
Issues vehicle title and registration; collects sales tax on exchange of boats between individual and provides forms for boat registration from the state; issues hunting and fishing licenses; issues business licenses; issues marriage licenses. Keeps Morgan County Commission minutes and maintains permanent record of Morgan County Commission meetings and records and various committee meeting records; collects notary public commission (Applicant must be approved by Morgan County Commission); takes applications for beer licenses. The County Clerk’s Office is on the first floor of the courthouse. The County Clerk is elected to a four-year term.
The Trustee serves as treasurer for the county. Handles personal and property taxes; invests and safeguards county funds. The Trustee’s Office is located on the first floor of the courthouse. The Trustee is elected to a four-year term.
The property assessor is responsible for appraising all taxable properties in Morgan County (residential land, houses, mobile homes, business equipment, commercial and industrial property) and for the correct ownership of property. The assessor also drafts maps to show correct property lines and verifies sales data to make sure that appraisals are 100 percent of market value. The assessor is audited and government by the State Division of Property Assessments in Nashville. The Assessor’s Office is on the second floor of the courthouse. The Property Assessor is elected to a four-year term.
Photo by Jennie L. Chevalier
Register of Deeds
Clerk and Master
Administrator
Frank Williams III, Chancellor
Elections Commission
Sandra Dalton 423-346-3105
Angela Anderson 423-346-3881
Tim Sweat 423-346-3190
The register of deeds is in charge of all real estate. She records warranty deeds, trust deeds and related instruments, powers of attorney, real estate contracts, leases, options to purchase, military discharges, charges of incorporation, certified will copies, certified judgement copies and orders of courts. The Register of Deeds Office is on the first floor of the courthouse and is elected to a four-year term.
The Clerk and Master’s Office handles probates wills: collects back taxes; keeps records of Morgan County Chancery Court (handles divorces, adoptions, worker’s compensation, guardianship, conservativeships and trusts, contract debts, boundary line disputes and miscellaneous civil suits). The Clerk and Master’s Office is on the first floor of the courthouse. The Clerk and Master is appointed.
Oversees voter registration. Forms may be filled out in person or requested by telephone and sent to mailing address (complete registration 30 days before an upcoming election); oversees absentee voting in person or by mail; dispenses official petitions to candidates; keeps current list of elected officials; conducts all county, city, state and federal elections. The Election Commission Office is on the first floor of the courthouse. The Administrator of Elections is appointed
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ELECTED OFFICIALS & OFFICE HOLDERS Morgan County
Morgan County
Criminal Court Judge
Superintendent of Roads
Jeff Wicks 865-376-6573
Joe Henry Miller 423-346-6661
Tracey Williams 423-346-2889
The Morgan County Road Department maintains county roads and bridges. The office is located on Flat Fork Road. The superintendent is elected by the voters to a four-year term.
The Morgan County Attorney serves as legal counsel to the county officials and sits in on many of the county commission meetings and committee meetings as necessary. The county attorney is elected by the voters to a four-year term.
The Criminal Court handles mainly felony cases, including grand jury indictments, general session criminal court appeals, and all post-conviction relief hearings. Judge Wicks main office is located in Kington.
Morgan County
Photo by Jennie L. Chevalier
Circuit Court Judge
Morgan County
Attorney
Morgan County
Sheriff
Morgan County
Circuit Court Clerk
Wayne Potter 423-346-6262
Michael S. Pemberton 865-376-5776 The Circuit Court Judge handles lawsuits over $10,000, files civil lawsuits; collects child support; files adoptions; handles workers compensation, collects judgments and cost on civil cases; issues garnishments and executions, files divorces; empanels jurors, processes appeal papers to court of appeals; receives payments of costs and judgments. The Chancellor’s main office is located in Kingston.
Marla Hines 423-346-3503 The Circuit Court Clerk is responsible for the Morgan County General Sessions, Morgan County Circuit Court and Morgan County Civil & Criminal Court. In addition to Juvenile Court and Child Support. The Circuit Court Clerk’s office is located on the 2nd floor in the courthouse and the General Sessions office is located in the court annex building.
The Morgan County Sheriff’s Office is the primary law enforcement agency for Morgan County. The office is located across from the Morgan County Courthouse on Main Street and the administrative office also adjoins the Morgan County Jail property. The Morgan County Sherriff oversees both the law engorcement officers and the jail facility.. The Sheriff is elected to a fouryear term.
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ELECTED OFFICIALS & OFFICE HOLDERS Morgan County
Director
Director
Emergency Management & Homeland Security
Morgan County Emergency Medical Services
Litter Grant Coordinator
Jody Zorsch
Doug Lamance 423-346-6601
Kristi Seay 423-346-6288
P.O. Box 1247, Wartburg, TN 37887
Office: (423) 346-1003 Mobile: 423-539-8641 Email: emermgmt@highland.net Morgan County EMA is responsible for the county emergency plan and coordinating the response to disasters, through mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery. As defined by state law TCA 58-2-110.
The Morgan County Emergency Medical Services provides emergency are to local residents through its qualified team of paramedics, emergency medical technicians and transportation staff. The office is located on Flat Fork Road. Larry Potter is the Director of EMS for Morgan County.
Director Morgan County E-911
The Litter Grant Coordinator helps to keep Morgan County beautiful. Selected by the Morgan County Executive Office she is tasked with spreading awareness about litter and how to reduce litter in Morgan County. The Litter Grant Program is funded by the Tennessee Department of Transportation. The program allocates funding for all 95 counties in Tennessee for litter prevention and litter abatement. Morgan County’s amount varies each year but for 2021 we were awarded $44,200 for this program. That money goes towards payroll, supplies, gas for trucks (for the pickup crew), advertisement and other expenses.”
Director
Director
Morgan County Department of Sanitation
Morgan County Finance Department
Matthew Brown 423-346-0911 morganco911@highland.net
Keith Kilby 423-346-7487 The Morgan County Department of Sanitation oversees the convenience centers in each of the communities in the county. The department also operates a landfill located off Flat Fork Road in Wartburg. The landfill is restricted. Leamon Woods is the director and in addition to his paid staff, uses inmate labor from the state prison to dispose of the county’s solid waste.
Morgan County E-911 provides emergency and non-emergency call taking for the citizens and visitors of Morgan County. They handle all dispatch operations for the Morgan County Sheriff’s Department, Sunbright Police Department, Wartburg Police Department, Morgan County EMS, Morgan County Rescue Squad, Morgan County Emergency Management, and all ten volunteer fire departments. They also act as a liaison for these agencies when additional resources are needed. Along with the above mentioned duties, the office is responsible for maintaining, and assigning address to residents and businesses in Morgan County.
Crystal Garrett 423-346 6618 IThe Morgan County Finance Director and their staff are responsible for all the county’s purchasing, payroll, budgeting, accounting and cash financial management. The Finance Office administers the finances for all funds handled by the Trustee. The Director of Finance also assists other county officials with their budgets and in achieving an efficient financial management system.
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R.M. BROOKS GENERAL STORE Rugby, Tennessee 37733
423.628.2533 Designated National Register of Historic Places A community landmark and meeting place in operation by five generations of family committed to protecting and preserving the heritage of people and times past. Nostalgic Memorabilia..Pot Bellied Stove..Rocking Chairs Rat Trap Cheese..Bologna Sandwiches..Soda Pop..Moon Pies
A Little Closer to Heaven Primitive Tree House This is tent camping in a tree house. Located behind the historic R.M. Brooks Store, it is the perfect place to find peace and beauty .
Book through Owners Gary & Tiffany Terry
Serving The Public From One Generation To The Next
CAS MORGAN COUNTY
MORGAN COUNTY
HEADSTART
TRUSTEE
105 Longview Drive P.O. BOX 179 Wartburg, TN 37887 423.346.6633
P.O. BOX 189 WARTBURG,TN 37887
WORK: (423) 346-3430 FAX: (423) 346-2730
Shaping our ffuture, One child at a time
Come See What’s So Smart About
Wartburg Team
Visit us for all your financial needs! John Davis Market Executive NMLS #1916702
Bobby Hester Relationship Manager NMLS #777191
Leah Wilson Residential Lender NMLS #1365403
705 Main Street • Wartburg 423.346.6635
www.smartbank.com
NMLS #604758
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MORGAN COUNTY SCHOOLS
K - 12th
K - 12th
Coalfield School
Oakdale School
Principal: Matt Murphy Assistant Principal: Tim Hines
Principal: Heath Snow Vice Principal: Misty Nelson
PO Box 98 1720 Coal Hill Road Coalfield, TN 37719
Phone: 865-435-7332 Fax: 865-435-2646
225 Clifty Creek Road Oakdale, TN 37829
Phone: 423-369-3885 Fax: 423-369-2821
Pre K - 8th
Petros Joyner School Principal: Laura Bunch Assistant Principal: Phillip Richardston 125 Petros Joyner School Rd Petros, TN 37840
K - 12th
Phone: 423-324-8600 Fax: 423-324-2558
Pre K - 5th
Sunbright School
Wartburg Central Elementary School
Principal: Julie Smith Assistant Principal: Misty Northrup
Principal: Zandy Knox Assistant Principal: Lisa Hooks
205 Burrville Road Sunbright, TN 37872
Phone: 423-628-2582 Fax: 423-628-2120
1315 Knoxville Highway Wartburg, TN 37887
Phone: 423-346-6683 Fax: 423-346-5556
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MORGAN COUNTY SCHOOLS
6th - 8th
9th - 12th
Wartburg Central Middle School
Wartburg Central High School
Principal: Wayne Frasier Assistant Principal: Misty Northrup
Principal: Aaron Jones Assistant Principal: Jason Davis
146 Liberty Road, Wartburg, TN 37887
Phone: 423-346-2800 Fax: 423-346-2805
1119 Knoxville Highway, Wartburg, TN 37887
Phone: 423-346-6616 Fax: 423-346-5564
Morgan County Career & Technical Center
Roane State Community College
Director: Dr. Dan Shoemaker
Director: Michelle Adkisson
151 Longview Drive Wartburg, TN 37887
Phone: 423-346-6285 Fax: 423-346-6043
For All of Your Advertising Needs Call
Jennie L. Chevalier Account Executive Cell (704) 530-9191 Office (423) 346-6225 jchevalier@morgancountynews.net
1 CALL - 1 BILL - 3 PAPERS
146 Liberty Road, Wartburg, TN 37887
Phone: 423-346-8700 Fax: 423-346-2168
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COUNTY COMMISSIONERS FIRST DISTRICT – Coalfield • Terry “Bear” Jackson - (865) 591-4021 • Randy Roberts - (865) 748-7244 • Steve Walls - (865) 387-1061
SECOND DISTRICT – Oakdale • Earl Headrick - (865) 803-2739 • Vera Scarbrough - (423) 369-9533 • Fred Snow - (423) 369-2601
THIRD DISTRICT – Wartburg • Bill Shannon - (865) 617-7975 • David Hennessee - (423) 319-6124 text • Vernon Justes - (423) 319-6173
FOURTH DISTRICT – Deer Lodge/ Lancing/Chestnut Ridge • Robert Byrd - (417) 274-2672 • Susie Kreis - (423) 663-7648 • Mike Raiford - (770) 356-2020 text
FIFTH DISTRICT – Sunbright/Rugby/Burrville • Melissa Bryant - (423) 319-8691 • Michael McGrath - (423) 319-6515 • Jerry Zorsch - (423) 628-5471
SIXTH DISTRICT – Petros/Joyner/Mossy Grove • Freddie Seavers - (865) 789-1938 • Janet Adkisson - (423) 539-8598 • Eli Anderson - (423) 539-6056
DIRECTOR OF MORGAN COUNTY SCHOOLS David Treece treeced@mcsed.net FIRST DISTRICT
FOURTH DISTRICT
Coalfield
Deer Lodge Lancing and Chestnut Ridge
Ben Jackson jacksonb@mcsed.net
Tammy Howard howardt@mcsed.net
SECOND DISTRICT
FIFTH DISTRICT
Oakdale
Sunbright and Burrville
Wade Summers summersw@mcsed.net
Billy Ward wardb@mcsed.net SIXTH DISTRICT
THIRD DISTRICT
Wartburg Michael Ledbetter ledbetterm@mcsed.net
Petros Kellys and Mossy Grove Mickey Tucker tuckerm@mcsed.net
MORGAN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARIES Sunbright Public Library
Petros Public Library
142 Melton Drive Sunbright, TN (423) 346-2479 Lonetta Beshears, Library Director sunbrightlib@highland.net Hours: Mon-Thurs. 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sat. 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
209 Main Street Petros, TN (423) 346-247 Carol Betene, Library Director Petrospl1@highland.net Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Wartburg Public Library
Coalfield Public Library
514 Spring Street Wartburg, TN (423) 346-2479 Patricia Conner, Library Director Wartburgplibrary78@gmail.com Hours: Mon.-Thur. 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fri. 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sat. 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
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112 Jerry Jones Road Coalfield, TN (865) 435-4275 Evangeline Lauth, Library Director coalfieldlibrary@yahoo.com Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Deer Lodge Public Library 110 Corinne Avenue Deer Lodge, TN (423) 346-2479 deerlodgepl@highland.net Hours: Call for Current Hours
Oakdale Public Library 212 Queen Avenue Oakdale, TN (423) 346-2479 oakdalepubliclibrary@gmail.com Hours: Call for Current Hours
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Proudly Serving Morgan County Since 1951 Gas Piping
HVAC
865-771-2620 Office: (423) 346-2626 Reagan Williams - Certified Technician
Plateau Utility District
Sales, Service Installation Licensed Electrician
121 N. Kingston St. • Wartburg, TN 37887
mbmheatingandair@gmail.com 305 Old Hwy 27 • Lancing, TN 37770
423-346-3101
We have been proudly serving and protecting Morgan County since 1980
Looking to get into the criminal justice or law enforcement fields? If so, the Tennessee Department of Correction – the state’s LARGEST law enforcement agency – would like to encourage you to enter the field from within our agency and help us enhance public safety here in Morgan County and the surrounding communities! We provide paid training; a great benefits package including health, dental and retirement; tuition assistance; and numerous educational and professional growth opportunities among our nearly 200 career pathways.
Starting pay is $ 32,500 annually with automatic raises awarded after completion of the probationary period.
So what do you say? Launch YOUR career with team TDOC today! Apply online at www.tn.gov/correction or apply in person at the Morgan County Correctional Complex in Wartburg, TN. For more information call 423-346-1520 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
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MORE DISCOVERIES IN MORGAN COUNTY! ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY JENNIE CHEVALIER ~ MORGAN COUNTY NEWS
Wartburg Speedway (1.2 miles) The Wartburg Speedway is a ¼ mile dirt track that has been a racing staple in our local community since the early 1980’s. Annually the speedway hosts a variety of events in addition to Saturday night racing such as the Easter egg hunt, 4th of July celebration and the Kennedy Memorial race held in August. The 2021 season will bring in super, open wheel, late models and more to the track for race enthusiasts to enjoy. The race season has already kicked off for Saturday night racing and runs through September. The gates open at 4 p.m., drivers meeting at 6:45 p.m. and racing hits the dirt at 7 p.m.
WindRock Park (19.6 miles) If you are looking for an off-road adventure, then WindRock Park is the place for you. WindRock Park features 73,000 acres and accommodates all types of vehicles from ATVs, SxS’s, dirt bikes, mountain bikes, Jeeps/4x4s, buggies and trucks. Within those 73,000 there are 300 miles of trail riding, hiking and camping. There is something for all outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy within the park.
Catoosa Wildlife Management Area (30.9 miles) This is a 96,000 acre area managed by the TWRA that is located throughout Morgan, Fentress and Cumberland Counties. This area is popular with outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy backpacking, whitewater rafting and four-wheel drive roads. For hikers the most notable area is the Cumberland Trail that travels through portions of Catoosa. Because wild life management areas are purchased primarily with funds from hunters, it is a main priority in these areas. Off-road vehicles and horses are permitted on certain roads and trails and overnight camping is allowed in designated areas.
Lone Mountain State Forest (4.8 miles) Lone Mountain State Forest consists of 3,624 acres managed by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. Lone Mountain rises to an elevation of 2,530 feet and its isolation makes it one of the most prominent mountains in the state. The area hosts approximately 15 miles of trails and one of the most popular highlights is Coyote Point which opens up to a beautiful overlook. The trails are open to hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riding.
Nemo Tunnel #24 (5.3 miles) Tunnel #24 was bored in 1878 which allowed trains to move through the mountain at Nemo, Tennessee. The tunnel is no longer used for train traffic but is popular for locals and visitors alike to explore. It is primarily all still intact with some minor issues such as water buildup and has been enjoyed by off roaders for years. For history buffs it is a great spot to visit the old rail corridor. **Note** All mileage is approximate from the City of Wartburg,
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MORE DISCOVERIES IN MORGAN COUNTY! ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY JENNIE CHEVALIER
Historic Rugby (27.2 miles) Situated on the far side of Morgan County is the historic village established by Englishman Thomas Hughes in 1880. Historic Rugby offers guided tours through original historical homes, museum displays, lodging, shopping and more. Just outside of the original village in Rugby is Grey Gables Bed & Breakfast Inn and the historical RM Brooks General Store. RM Brooks is an original historical building that serves up history along with some great food.
Potters Falls (2.1 miles)
Lilly Pad Hopyard & Brewery
If you are a lover of waterfalls and want to enjoy two in one place, then (9.4 miles) stop by Potter’s Falls just outside Wartburg. These waterfalls are part of the The Lilly Pad Hopyard & Brewery offers handcrafted brewed beers. Crooked Fork Creek and feature two vertical drops. The Upper Potters is an Visitors today can sit and enjoy one of 8 beers on tap at any time of the year. eighteen foot drop into a deep pool, which separates it from Lower Potters which is twelve feet then six feet. Crooked Fork Creek is a popular whitewater The Lilly Pad rotates between 40 and 50 different homemade brews all year long so visitors can experience something new each time they visit. Also on destination and the upper falls is considered a safe drop for paddlers. site is Morgan County’s first food truck which is currently serving the same purpose at the Lilly Pd. They are host to live music events throughout the year and everyone who visits feels like family.
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The Beer Barn (7.2 miles) The Beer Barn is a recent addition to the area and owned and operated by two brothers. The brewery is located on their family’s farm which has been in the family for generations. They currently offer 8 brews on tap and all of them are brewed on property. Look for specialty brews during summer and other times of the year all brewed using locally sourced and grown ingredients. Stop out and enjoy a picturesque view.
MOCO Brewing (1 mile) MOCO Brewing Project is a new addition to the downtown area of Wartburg with its 16 craft brews on tap and freshly brewed coffee and (27.2 miles) espresso drinks. MOCO Brewing has weekend live music and food trucks RM Brooks is an original historical building that serves up history along regularly and visitors will also find special edition brews throughout the year. with some great food. The store has been in the same family for generation after generation. Although some things have been updated, it still holds the old charm of days past. Inside the store you will still find the old post office boxes, vintage antique and family items and pictures all around. RM Brooks Store was also recognized for having the best fried bologna sandwich in the state of Tennessee. The store also now offers camping, RV sites and a primitive treehouse for overnight visitors.
RM Brooks Store
Enjoy Exploring The Hidden Treasures of Morgan County!
**Note** All mileage is approximate from the City of Wartburg,
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649 Sparta Hwy. • Crossville, TN 38572 HOT TUBS SWIM SPA S N ew & U s e
d
SALES • SERVICE • PARTS HOURS: Mon. - Fri. 11AM - 7PM • Sat. 10 AM - 5 PM Closed Sunday
931-248-1660 www.spabuildersoftennessee.com
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JUST A HOP, SKIP & A JUMP FROM MORGAN COUNTY ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY JENNIE CHEVALIER
Ride Royal Blue
Crossville Dragway
(52.2 miles) Pioneer, TN
(37 miles) Crossville, TN
200,000 acres with 600 miles of trails is an adventurers dream and it is a reality at Ride Royal Blue. The hundreds of miles of trails accommodate a variety of off-road vehicles such as ATV’s, dual sport, trail bikes, four-wheel drive trucks, jeeps, rail buggies, mountain bikes and more. Mountain terrain, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, wildlife and much more are featured throughout all of the trails. Many trails also offer hiking and horseback riding. The trails range in difficulty from a leisurely afternoon to a white-knuckle adventure. All vehicles are required to have a TWRA permit to ride.
In 2016 the Crossville Dragway was rebuilt from the ground up and features a 1/8 mile track. The concrete surface was resurfaced in 2018 which provides a smoother surface that rivals any drag strip around. The track features many special events and racing throughout the year that brings in 200-mile-per-hour blown dragsters, Pro Mods, diesel-powered cars, trucks and dragsters together and also features a Friday Family Fun Night. The Friday Family Fun Night opens the track to cars, trucks and motorcycles of any kind for an affordable night of testing and grudge racing.
Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge
Highland Manor Winery
(21.6 miles) Oak Ridge, TN The Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge is an educational resource for any age to explore and learn. There are opportunities for children to discover, solve and experience within non-traditional interactive exhibit galleries. The museum emphasizes science, history and art in a hands-on learning environment. The museum sees visitors of all ages and welcomes teachers, parents, caregivers and everyone together where imaginations are rekindled. The museum also offers additional resources such as 20,000 objects, archival holdings, audio/video tapes, books and magazines.
Cumberland County Playhouse (37.3 miles) Crossville, TN The Cumberland County Playhouse has been managed and directed by the same family for many generations since 1965. Annually over 145,000 visitors attend a performance or show at either the indoor or outdoor stages. The Playhouse is rooted in its local and surrounding county history and commonly produces works based upon Tennessee and Southeastern history and culture, plus the state and regional premiers and revivals of works with the Appalachian themes. The playhouse is 27,000 square feet and is a four-theater complex.
Sawbriar Brewery ((31.9 miles) Jamestown, TN A brand new feature to the Cumbe-rland Plateau is the first tap room in the area to feature a wide variety of Tennessee craft beers, hard ciders and more. Weekends feature a variety of live entertainment and food trucks offering good bites from American, seafood, BBQ and more. The brewery is located just behind Highland Manor Winery so visitors with a variety of tastes can enjoy a glass of wine or a great brew on tap.
(31.9 miles) Jamestown, TN Highland Manor Winery is Tennessee’s oldest winery and a must see if you are visiting or looking for a day trip nearby. You can enjoy the views of the vineyard from the patio area while tasting a variety of award-winning wines or have a glass with friends inside the modified English Tudor home the winery calls home. There is a wine for every palette that includes Royal Rose, Highland Red, White and many more varieties. .
Museum of Appalachia (38.7 miles) Clinton, TN The Museum of Appalachia is a living history museum that features the people of Southern Appalachia through its collections, facilities and more. The museum was founded in 1969 and is now a non-profit organization, a Smithsonian Affiliate museum. Daily self-guided tours are offered. The museum features 65 acres complete with 35 log cabins, barns, farm animals, churches, schools and gardens. There is a vast collection of artifacts that total over 250,000 pieces of history to enjoy. The museum does also offer a restaurant on-site and gift shop that also features local artisans, authors and more. Continued on page 29
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JUST A HOP, SKIP & A JUMP FROM MORGAN COUNTY ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY JENNIE CHEVALIER
Ijams Nature Center (50.3 miles) Knoxville, TN Ijams Nature Center is situated on 300 acres of protected wildlife habitat and natural areas. Ijams includes 10 miles of natural surface trails, disused marble quarries, boardwalks along the Tennessee River, historic cemeteries, wildflowers, birding, rock formations, ponds, lakes and many overlooks. Bike riders can also enjoy the ride down the City Greenway that winds through Ijams beginning at Island Home Park or through the Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area. Since Ijams is nestled on the banks of the Tennessee River you can also enjoy the area by kayak, canoe or paddle board.
Sgt.Alvin C. York State Park
Pickett State Park (47.4 miles) Pickett State Park is 19,200 acres of history, hiking and breathtaking scenery. Pickett State Park and the neighboring Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area were both designated as Silver-tier International Dark Sky Parks so visitors can enjoy the clear, rich views of the night sky, constellations and stars. The park also features a CCC Museum that shares exhibits and artifacts depicting the contributions they made to the state parks and natural areas. There are 58 miles of hiking trails that feature sandstone bluffs, waterfalls, rock caves, overlooks, natural bridges and much more. The park is adjacent to the Big South Fork Park National River & Recreational Area. Pickett offers cabins, campsites and rustic lodging.
(63.5 miles) Pall Mall, TN
Rock-a-Billy Diner
Sgt. Alvin C. York State Park is situated just north of Jamestown, TN and pays tribute to one of the most decorated soldiers of World War I, Alvin C. York. The park includes a visitor’s center modeled after the old general store, the original York Mill that sits on the banks of the Wolf River, reproduction trenches, house tours, the family barn, the York Bible School and hiking trail or short drive to the cemetery and final resting place of the decorated hero and his family.
Step back into the old days and the 1950’s in this diner that still serves up some of the favorites such as old-fashioned burgers, hotdogs, onion rings, the very popular milkshakes and hand-dipped ice cream. A jukebox still entertains visitors when they stop by. If something sweet is what you are looking for pick up the Elvis inspired Mudslide Sundae or as featured on Tennessee Crossroads their famous Banana Split.
Cumberland Mountain General Store (30 miles) Crossville, TN Cumberland Mountain General Store still maintains its old-time charm featuring its’ original 1923 store fixtures and continues to offers old time merchandise at what may have been their original price. Annually each year they take part in the popular 127 Longest Yard Sale and also throughout the year are a host to other events such as car shows and rod runs and even Craft Brew Festivals. Visitors can also pick up a wide variety of homemade fudge.
(30 miles) Clarkrange, TN
Colditz Cove State Natural Area (30.8 miles) Allardt, TN Colditz Cove State Natural Area is 165 acres that features a plunging 60 foot waterfall, Northrup Falls. Visitors can take a short hike in and enjoy the nature, wildlife and waterfall from above or continue on the path and hike down to and behind the waterfall to complete a loop trail. The trail features many rock cliffs and rock houses and an abundance of foliage and wildlife to include several rare animals like the Black Mountain dusky salamander and the woodland jumping mouse.
**Note** All mileage is approximate from the City of Wartburg, TN.
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Discover MORGAN COUNTY 2021
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119 Hillcrest Street PO Box 1278 Wartburg, TN 37887
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110 Cumberland Street PO Box 866 Wartburg, TN 37887 423-346-2889 (ATTY) tracey@twilliams-law.com
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www.highland.net 423-346-4050
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DISCOVER BASE CAMP WARTBURG ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY JENNIE CHEVALIER All around the city of Wartburg has been decals, signs, t-shirts and more for Base Camp Wartburg. What is Base Camp Wartburg? Roger Long, co-chairman of the Downtown Wartburg Revitalization (DWR) Committee shares the Base Camp Wartburg message for everyone. The concept of Base Camp Wartburg stemmed from a steering committee meeting for the Downtown Revitalization Group as a result of a branding exercise. The committee wanted to find a way to bring Wartburg back to life. One of the first things the revitalization group did was combine their efforts with the Tennessee Downtown Program (TDP) which helps communities with historical preservation of the main street areas and more. This combined effort afforded the group the opportunity to apply, receive and use grants to help building owners and businesses in our local downtown area. “We want to see Wartburg come back to life, especially the downtown area,” Long said. “The economic development of the downtown area will be the focus. We would like to see new businesses such as coffee shops or ones that can cater to the outdoor recreation market itself establish themselves here.” The group hired a consultant who specialized in this type of branding and marketing and Base Camp Wartburg began. It is designed to highlight not just Wartburg but also the surrounding areas. Looking at the area and the lack of industry growth the group wants to focus on what the area has to offer the most currently, which is outdoor recreation. Visitors will need a place to sleep, eat, buy supplies and groceries, access WIFI and more. Wartburg is surrounded by a vast amount of outdoor recreational opportunities such as Frozen Head State Park, Obed Wild and Scenic, Big South Fork National River and Recreation and also areas such as Historic Rugby that can draw tourism and visitors. With Wartburg being the central hub to most of these places, it made sense to create some focus and opportunities in the local area to help bring economic growth back to the county. “We want businesses that are already in Wartburg and the surrounding areas to grow and flourish,” Long said. “Anything that happens in Morgan County truly affects everyone. We want to help any group in Morgan County and assist anyone we can in reaching the goal of bringing back economic growth for their area, local businesses and community members.” Long said the more people that travel through or come to visit Wartburg and its surrounding areas and the more promotion of the county’s attributes and what it has to offer, the more economic growth the area can see. With economic growth that would equal less of a tax burden for residents countywide. Annually each year, DWR host its’ fundraiser “Supper on the Square”. This is a unique event that brings together local business owners and interested community members for a social gathering and also provides an official update on the progress of both Wartburg and Basecamp Wartburg. Super on the Square was not held due to Covid-19 in 2020 but the members of the organization are excited to be bringing it back for 2021. “Our community has a German heritage and we do not want to lose that at all,” Long said. “But it stuck out to everyone in our group that we are right in the center of such a vast outdoor recreational area, and we should concentrate on that as well.” Base Camp Wartburg is not finished yet and has many goals and focuses moving further into this year. Long said they are organizing opportunities to work on cleaning up the areas around Wartburg to make the area presentable for visitors. Long said there is a wealth of information to get out to people about Wartburg and all the surrounding opportunities that they will also
focus on promoting the county from Rugby to Pine Orchard to Coalfield, to all corners of Morgan County. Base Camp Wartburg will share this message through continued social media presence, magazine articles, newspaper articles and also working alongside state agencies and organization such as the Morgan County Tourism Alliance. Through all of these efforts, Marta Monroe, DWR co-chair , said that it seems to be easier to get people excited and involved with their combined efforts in bringing life and preserving history to Morgan County and the downtown Wartburg area. Base Camp Wartburg does operate under the City of Wartburg. The City assists in applying for grants and also to help with funding. For more information or to learn how to become part of the Base Camp Wartburg programs visit https://www.basecampwartburg.com.
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Discover MORGAN COUNTY 2021 Nestled on a beautiful Tennessee hillside, this rustic cabin is a great place to relax from the busyness of life. With all the necessary amenities it is perfect whether you’re staying just a night or a week.
Creekside Cabin at Shady Grove Farm
creeksidecabin983@gmail.com For details and rental info visit our Airbnb listing, Lancing, TN
VERN JUSTES WORK
423.346.3014 CELL
423.319.6173
Wartburg Speedway is a 1/4-mile dirt track nestled in the mountains in Morgan County just outside of Wartburg, Tennessee.
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Racing has taken place since the 1960’s at Wartburg Speedway.
In recent years, the track and facilities have seen upgrades for a better fan and racer experience. In 2010, Wartburg Speedway hosted its largest event when the World of Outlaws Late Model Series visited for the first time.
RACES EVERY SATURDAY NIGHT MARCH TO SEPTEMBER with action packed dirt racing action.
Gates open at 4 p.m. drivers meeting at 6:45 racing beings at 7 p.m. For more information and a p complete schedule visit our website
www.wartburgspeedway.net
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TOUR BRUSHY MOUNTAIN
ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY JENNIE CHEVALIER Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary opened in 1896 and is best known to house James Earl Ray, the convicted assassin of Martin Luther King Jr. It was Tennessee’s only maximum-security prison for 113 years. They say the worst crimvtinals of the times were housed at Brushy Mountain and most of those inmates knew they would never leave the walls of the prison or pass through the steel gates. The prison closed in 2009 and its functions were transferred to a new prison facility located in Morgan County. Once Brushy Mountain closed it stood vacant for several years. If you visit Morgan County now and the historic Brushy Mountain prison, you will now be able to step behind those steel gates yourself, walk down the corridors and take in a bit of history. The Brushy Mountain Group, headed by Peter Waddington and Brian May, took over the facility and have now created a tourist, visitor and local community place to enjoy and absorb the history. The facility offers self-guided tours, and former prison guards are on hand to help with questions or share their personal stories, group tours, a museum, a short movie about the history of the prison, a restaurant, moonshine and more. The prison now features more than 30 information stations for visitors to read and learn about the history and past of this historic prison. The museum houses items and artifacts such as homemade tattoo guns, weapons, books, contraband and more. The movie shown in the museum shares stories told by past inmates and former prison guards alike to give you a first-hand account about what life was like behind the stone-cold walls of Brushy Mountain Prison. The restaurant The Wardens Table has an outdoor screened in porch seating area, which can accommodatte up to 72 people in addition to the original indoor seating. The food is served on small trays like you would have seen behind the walls. The menu at the Wardens Table features some of the best food in Morgan County with a daily chalkboard menu that can include ribs, pulled pork, smoked turkey and more. Since Brushy Mountain has reopened they have offered a wide variety of events and festivities. On tap for 2021 the prison will see a concert series, car shows, gun show and more. Over the winter Brushy Mountain added
fixed bathrooms to the concert area to provide a better visitor experience while attending their concert events. Another new addition to the facility includes the installation and completion of a hologram in the “hole” portion of the tour. More hologram features will be added throughout the facility in the future to bring a more interactive feel to visitors. Currently the facility is also working on a wastewater treatment center to bring their hopes of a full campground including RV sites to the facility on-site. End of the Line Moonshine spearheaded the Brushy Mountain group in getting started in revitalizing this historic prison. Currently they offer a wide variety of flavors of moonshine and also offer 375 ml bottles that visitors can mix and match to try a variety of what they have to offer. The Brushy Mountain group has since expanded their line outside of moonshine and added a Frozen Head Vodka, a bloody mary mix Struggle Bus, Brushy double-barreled whiskey, Brimstone white whiskey and the Copperhead cinnamon schnapps. In its third season, the new revitalized Brushy Mountain Prison was host to approximately 60,000 visitors from all around the US and from other countries seeking the opportunity to take a step back in time but they anticipate that visitor number to increase substantially for 2021. The facility opens annually on April 2nd, Thursday to Sunday. Then beginning in May they will be open seven days a week, October will return to Thursday to Sunday operating hours and ending the year in November with weekend only hours. For more information call (423) 324-8687 or visit www.tourbrushy.com.
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Uplands Village is located on 500 acres with an option to buy your own home. We also offer Fletcher House Assisted Living, with 3 levels of quality care to choose from. For those who need Memory Care support we have beautiful, homelike apartments with around the clock personal care. Independent Living • Assisted Living • Memory Care Long-Term Care • Short-Term Rehabilitation • Home Healthcare
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55 West Lake Road ~ Pleasant Hill, TN 38578
H IGHLAND M ANOR WINERY TEN N ESSEE’S OLDEST W I N ERY
Visit Highland Manor Winery to see where Tennessee wine-making began. Enjoy the views of the historic vineyard while relaxing with a bottle of our award-winning wines.
Cajun Day July 3
Wine & Swine June 5 Gift Shop
127 Sale Festivities Aug. 6-7
Free Tastings
Corks & Forks Sept. 4
Wine Cellar
Bus & Trailer Friendly Parking 2965 S York Hwy, Jamestown • Tennessee
931-879-9519
www.highlandmanorwinery.com
Fentress County’s first tap room with
TENNESSEE’S FINEST CRAFT BREWS HARD CIDERS and more!
LIVE MUSIC and FOOD TRUCKS on Weekends
CHECK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPCOMING EVENTS
2965 South York Highway • Jamestown, TN Located behind Highland Manor Winery
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DISCOVER BIG SOUTH FORK
ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY JENNIE CHEVALIER Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area encompasses 125,000 acres of the Cumberland Plateau. The park boasts scenic gorges and sandstone bluffs. The park is rich with natural and historic features and allows its visitors a wealth of outdoor activities. The Big South Fork River flows north from Tennessee to Kentucky into Lake Cumberland. It is approximately 90 miles long, and runs all the way to Burnside Island in Kentucky. The river is wild and free flowing. The Cumberland Plateau is different from other ranges because of the sandstone cliffs, rock shelters and other impressive formations. Chief Interpretive and Education Ranger Chris Derman said the sandstone arches within the park are impressive. “The sandstone structures dot the landscape throughout the park,” Derman said. “Big South Fork has the most arches of any other park east of the Mississippi with more than 130. They range in size, shape and there are several spots that boast multiple arches in one location.” The river offers a wide range of activities from whitewater rafting, canoeing, kayaking and fishing. The Big South Fork River is home to more than sixty species of fish including channel catfish, sunfish, muskellunge and smallmouth bass. In addition, walleye, striped bass and white bass migrate upstream from Lake Cumberland. Within the park there is a large diversity of habitats for mammals and birds. A visitor to the area might have the opportunity to see white-tailed deer, black bear, elks and even smaller mammals such as raccoon, bobcats and the gray fox. Black bears were released experimentally in the mid 1990’s and the elk have migrated to this spectacular park. Both migratory and resident birds flourish in Big South Fork. There are as many as 160 species documented in recent years. Big South Fork offers both hunting and fishing to residents, which is unique. There is a large draw to the park for both the hunting and fishing enthusiast because of this. The Big South Fork area is home to an abundant amount of plant life, trees and wildflowers. The park offers several ranger led wildflower pilgrimages during different blooming times to share and educate visitors. Visitors will have the chance to ask park rangers questions, take photos and learn about how each season brings out different wildflower beauty in the park.
Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area offers more than 400 miles of extensive hiking and foot trails. In addition mountain bike, horse trails and multi-use trails are available to visitors. Mountain biking and horseback riding in the park is steadily becoming more popular. Derman has been impressed by the wide variety of activities offered within the park. “I continue to be impressed by the variety this park has to offer,” Derman said. “I have worked at other parks previously, but never have I been at one that allows visitors to get involved and engaged in so many different activities. Visitors can experience mountain biking, horseback riding, hunting, hiking, water sports and more.” Big South Fork has a large number of a mountain bike trails, more than most area parks. Derman said that the Grand Gap Loop within the park is most impressive with fantastic overlooks, adventure, its challenging route and the natural beauty along the way. Ranger led and other related programs are offered at Big South Fork throughout the year such as healthy hikes, back porch talk, national trails day, astronomy programs and more. If you are a local Morgan County resident and truly enjoy the Big South Fork Park you may also be interested in many of its volunteer opportunities such as the Trail Keeper Program. Derman said he became a part of the park family because growing up those are the most vivid and powerful experiences he remembers with his family. “I learned to enjoy hiking trails,” Derman said. “I would attend evening ranger programs and I was inspired by those to go to school and work towards a career in the park service. It has been more than 20 years and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.” Derman encourages everyone to bring their family, friends and neighbors to take in all that Big South Fork National Park and Recreation Area has to offer. Visitors can pitch a tent in one of its many campgrounds, hike the numerous trails, rough it in the backcountry or bring your RV. Two equestrian campgrounds are available too. For more information, or to plan a visit to BSF, go to https://www. nps.gov/biso/index.htm or call (423) 569-9778.
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Nature’s Playground - Let’s Play
“I can’t say enough good things about Life Care Centers of Morgan County. I am grateful for the opportunity to be here, and I am thankful for the great care that they have given to me.”
~ Jean Branstetter
Morgan County Tourism Alliance 201 Court Street • Wartburg, TN 37887 Visit our website for upcoming festivals, parades and events
@mctatn
mctamoco.com
@seemocotn
Life Care Center of Morgan County 419 S Kingston St. • Wartburg, TN 37887 (423) 346-6691 Phone • (423) 346-7031 Fax LifeCareCenterofMorganCounty.com
COVID-19 Helpline 833-503-0348
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DISCOVER THE CUMBERLAND TRAIL
ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY JENNIE CHEVALIER
Morgan County is a unique part of the Cumberland Trail because it is the only place that the trail travels through a town along its 300 miles. The Cumberland Trail State Scenic Trail is a 300-mile hiking trail that Jones said it is important to encourage people to become part of the park travels right through the heart of Morgan County. The Cumberland Trail runs north to the Cumberland Gap and south to Signal Point while traveling through service by volunteering to help with trail building, maintenance and other eleven counties. A lot of visitors may also not know that the Cumberland Trail projects to assist in completing the Cumberland Trail system. is a designated State Park. The Cumberland Trail is still expanding and growing each year and 2021 The Cumberland Trail is unique in that it follows along the Cumberland is set to see even more. They recently completed the trail between Black Plateau and mountains and hosts a different topography than others. Along Mountain and Ozone Falls, in partnership with the TWRA they purchased the trail there are areas for amazing rock climbing, historical significance 6,000 acres in Cumberland County of which 2,000 will be utilized for more and access for kayaking and boating. One historically significant place is trails and expanding the trail system, Hinch Mountain will see expansions to Devilstep Hollow Cave. It is a federally protected cave that is the only one to their trail systems and more. have three types of hieroglyphics inside, mud, charcoal and stone. The trail Jones said for the first time in 15 years since being a part of the has 11 back country campsites for through hikers to stay during their travels. Cumberland Trail he sees some end in sight. The Cumberland Trail got its start in the late 1960’s when individuals “For the fi rst time in 15 years I can really see the end is in sight,” Jones from the upper East Tennessee area got together with an idea to create a said. “I am super excited about that. There are a couple of smaller land deals hiking trail from Cumberland Gap to Oak Ridge. At this time there was no official organization, just a group of like-minded locals with an interest in long that need to be squared away including a few in Morgan County and then we can hopefully finish up our plans to expand this system even further in distance trail hiking. The idea of this long-distance trail took on new life in 1968 when the Morgan County.” nonprofit Tennessee Trails Association (TTA) was formed and crafted Jones encourages visitors who have not taken the opportunity to explore legislation that allowed the Cumberland Trail to be created. Once this was the Cumberland Trail to find the time. established, the original idea expanded to go beyond Oak Ridge. In the late “There are so many things to see on the Cumberland Trail,” Jones said. 1990’s Tennessee recognized the importance of this trail system and became “In the South end you have the super gorges. Then you travel up to Crossville involved. and you get great overlooks and then as you travel into the Northern section In Morgan County, visitors and community members alike can access the you will be in the mountains and some rugged areas like Frozen Head State Cumberland Trail trailhead in Frozen Head State Park and travel the distance Park, Anderson Mountain and more. It is so diverse that visitors can get the to LaFollette, TN which is about a 50-mile hike. Additionally there are portions entire experience of hiking through such a vast amount of various scenery of the Cumberland Trail that can be found near Nemo Bridge and also through on the Cumberland Trail.” the downtown Wartburg area. The Cumberland Trail has 2.3 million people residing within a 35 mile Cumberland Trail Park Manager, Anthony Jones, said their plans to extend drive to a trailhead. The Cumberland Trail is still under construction and and expand the trail system in Morgan County is coming to life. will eventually extend to more than 330 miles when it is complete. Of the “We were able to obtain an ARC Grant that is now going to allow us the opportunity to bring the expansion of the Cumberland Trail from Frozen Head proposed more than 300 miles of trail, about 190 miles and 45 trailheads are State Park to the Visitors Center in Wartburg,” Jones said. “Our goal is to have open to public use. For more information on the Cumberland Trail or to become a volunteer or this completed by the end of summer. We already have individuals who were chosen camping and beginning the trail building process.” supporter, visit http://www.cumberlandtrail.org/.
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Discover MORGAN COUNTY 2021 Proudly serving Morgan, Roane and surrounding counties since 1924.
– AT WARTBURG –
FAMILY MEDICINE & URGENT CARE
Hometown Healthcare for All Ages
Jonathan B. Laymance, M.D. Family Medicine *Accepting new patients of all ages* Monday - Friday: 8am - 4:30pm
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Urgent Care Walk-in Clinic Monday – Friday 4pm-8pm Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm
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423.346.3600
1825 Knoxville Hwy., Wartburg
Citizens Gas Utility District is headquartered in Helenwood, Tenn., and provides natural gas to residents and businesses in Tennessee’s Scott and Morgan counties. Established in 1958, Citizens Gas today serves over 10,000 customers .
Scott: 423-569-4457 Morgan: 423-346-7256 www.citizensgas.org
1318 Knoxville Hwy Wartburg
346-6677
7905 Morgan Co. Hwy Sunbright
628-2888 Locally Owned & Locally Operated
www.schubertfuneralhome.com
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NON-PROFIT / COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Serving the Tennessee Counties of: Morgan, Cumberland, Bledsoe, Van Buren, Rhea, Fentress and Roane (931) 456-0747 Office (800) 641-3434 Crisis Line www.avaloncentertn.org Domestic violence and sexual assault program. All services provided by the Avalon Center are free and confidential. Services Provided: • Emergency shelter available 24 hours a day • Advocacy to support victims in accessing and participating in the legal, criminal justice and social service systems • Community and prevention education • Professional counseling and support groups • Children’s programs that provide a child advocate to work with children to address the fear, trauma and guilt associated with being a child victim or witness of domestic or sexual violence • Crisis intervention and safety planning • Operates thrift store at 128 Cumberland Square, Crossville TN 710 Main Street Wartburg, TN 37887 (423) 346-5267 Director: Mary Simpson Applicants can apply in person for services provided by Storehouse Ministries. Storehouse Ministries is always looking for and can utilize volunteers to aid in providing their community services. If you are interested contact Mary Simpson at (423) 956-1488. Services Provided: • Non-perishable and perishable food and provide baby food and formula • Backpack/School Supply distribution annually • Assistance with toiletry items • Emergency aid for vehicle fuel/gas, aid with medical co-pay • Annually distributes toys for children and families during the Christmas holiday • Operates thrift store at 710 Main Street
The Unicorn Fund 121 S. Kingston StreetWartburg, TN (423) 346-7035 Hours: M-F 10 a.m.-4 p.m and Sat. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
1111 Knoxville Highway, Wartburg, TN 37887 (423) 346-6651 or (865) 691-2551 www.ethra.org Hours: M-F 8 a.m.-4:30, closed noon-1 p.m. for lunch Ethra is a non-profit agency that operates a diverse range of programs and services that help families and individuals remain independent and with opportunities to succeed. Programs/Services Provided: • Nutrition: Home delivery of meals for qualified applicants and commodity food distribution • Child Care Food Program • Housing: Utility assistance, rent/mortgage and Liheap assistance • CSBG: Prescription drug assistance, assistance for elderly and/or disabled for glasses, dental, etc., vehicle repairs for work transportation, clothing, special tools, etc. for employment. Testing and exam fees, books, • Transportation: Anyone can ride, medical and non-medical and work travel • Employment Support, free GED classes • Judicial: Providing offender supervision alternative • Independent Living for persons over 60, family caregiver or adults with disabilities.
1022 Old Deer Lodge Pike, Deer Lodge, TN (423) 965-3131 Director: Crystal Tompkins Hours: M-F from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Applicants can apply by phone or in person to qualify for services provided by the Morgan-Scott Project. Services Provided: • Non-perishable and perishable food boxes distributed • Emergency Aid for utilities, rent and medical co-pays • Backpack/School Supply distribution • ]Annual Garden Program • Free Medical Clinic available the second Friday of every month • Home repairs and educational support programs • Christmas holiday • Operates thrift store at 1022 Deer Lodge Pike
The Unicorn Fund is a charitable organization that helps underprivileged children in Morgan and Scott County, Tennessee. Applicants must apply in person for any services offered. Services Provided: • Back to School Supplies • Annual scholarship awards for both Morgan and Scott County • Annually distributes toys for children during the Christmas holiday • Operates thrift store at 602 Main Street
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Serving Morgan and Roane Counties Since 1995 Comfort & Guidance As a family-owned and -operated funeral home for more than 25 years, we understand the needs and challenges that arise when you are faced with the loss of a loved one. That’s why we’re here to help you through every decision and detail at this difficult time, honoring the memory of your loved one with a dignified and fitting tribute.
211 Old Mill Road • Wartburg 423.346.2011
715 Morgan Street • Harriman 865.882.2000
www.davisfuneralhomes.com