The Knoxville landmark known as the birthplace of Tennessee invites visitors to explore the home where the state’s story began.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — For those looking to discover the history of Tennessee, one of the most important stops is located in the heart of downtown Knoxville.
Known as the birthplace of Tennessee, Blount Mansion offers visitors a chance to walk through the home of William Blount, the state’s first and only territorial governor and a signer of the U.S. Constitution.
“You’re literally standing in the birthplace of Tennessee,” said David Hearnes, executive director of the Blount Mansion Association. “Blount Mansion is the home of William Blount, who was our first and only territorial governor, signer of the U.S. Constitution for North Carolina, and comes to the territory really as the man who is going to create the state of Tennessee.”
Built in 1792, the historic home has been preserved for generations, allowing visitors to experience the place where key moments in Tennessee history unfolded.
This year marks a major milestone for Blount Mansion, celebrating 100 years as a museum. The Blount Mansion Association was formed in 1925, and the museum opened to the public in 1926 with a mission to preserve and share the history connected to the property.
“This is one of the few homes of a Constitution signer still standing, and one of the very few that you can tour as a museum,” Hearnes said. “We want people to come and stand where history actually happens.”
The property tells the story of life on the Tennessee frontier in the late 1700s. When the home was first built, it was part of a larger compound that included the main house, a kitchen, storage buildings, a garden area, Governor Blount’s office and other structures.
The property also includes the history of the people who lived and worked there, including a cabin connected to enslaved individuals who were part of the household.
Today, visitors can tour the mansion and learn about the people, decisions and events that helped shape Tennessee.
Blount Mansion is located in downtown Knoxville near the Gay Street Bridge and is open to the public six days a week.
Hours:
- Tuesday through Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Sunday: Noon to 4 p.m.
- Closed Mondays
For anyone wanting to explore Tennessee history, Blount Mansion offers a unique opportunity to step inside the past and experience the place where the state’s journey began.
Smokies.LIVE Adventure Center tip: Add Blount Mansion to your next East Tennessee adventure and discover one of the places where Tennessee history was made.
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