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The history of place and its people is always fascinating; none more so than the Pigeon River in Eastern Tennessee. Nestled deep in the heart of the Smoky Mountains the Pigeon River is unique in its history, culture and geology. The origin of NASCAR is tied deeply to this area. The Appalachian Trail runs through the area so hikers and modern day woodsmen are plentiful. Before the Smoky Mountain National Park was created Hartford, Tennessee was a thriving logging town replete with a movie theater, restaurants, and a railroad line. Tales of mountain men, moonshine runners, and strong individualists of every type fill the mountains and hollows with their whispering. Currently the Pigeon River area and Hartford, Tennessee is undergoing a new boom of sorts as whitewater rafting emerges as a major recreational activity in the area. In 2003 the Pigeon River was the fastest growing whitewater river in the United States with over 60,000 rafters and a 20% growth rate. With its proximity to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, the Pigeon River and Hartford, Tennessee have created vital links to a mutual audience of families, students, and whitewater adventurers. Tourism is the largest industry in the area. The park, Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge and the Pigeon River all figure prominently in creating a new page in the history of a place and a people. Explore the links below for more information about the history and culture of this fascinating mountain community. |
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