 Welcome
OUR PURPOSE
The Fentress County Historical Society was established in 1968 for the purpose of promoting and preserving the rich history and legacy of the county, and of encouraging those interested in county history and genealogy through meetings, special events, publications and other resources to contribute their knowledge, skills and time for the benefit of others.
HOME PAGE ARTWORK
The artwork on this home page is from an original oil painting by local artist Quinton Lester “Butch” Hodgkins. It previously appeared on the cover of the 1987 Fentress County History. It depicts various aspects of Fentress County and is used with permission. The upper right corner pictures the courthouse, built in 1908 of natural cut stones taken from the area and typical of other buildings in the county. Agriculture remains a primary source of employment and income of predominately rural Fentress County. The small country post office at the lower left is representative of early architecture used also for stores, churches, schools and homes. The waterfall captures just one of the beautiful natural features of the Cumberland Plateau. The county offers amazing vistas featuring mountains, forests, rivers, streams, rock caves and natural bridges, and is virtually a paradise for tourists and a favorite site for equestrians. In the center of the painting is a tribute to World War I hero Sgt. Alvin C. York. Fentress County is proud of him and the many brave veterans, including Astronaut Roger Crouch, who have served the nation. Never has the nation called but what men and women of Fentress County have responded.
ABOUT US
The Historical Society works with county leadership to help archive important documents, private papers, newspapers, and county records so as to preserve the historical nature and value of these items.
We support the efforts of the Chamber of Commerce to develop and maintain a museum where artifacts, memorabilia, and other media are used to tell the story of Fentress County - her history and culture, her geography and natural resources, her business and industry, her natural beauty and varied landscape, and her religion and social life.
We are supportive of the work of the Sgt York Patriotic Foundation and their efforts to lift up and preserve the legacy of Sergeant Alvin C. York, greatest hero of WWI, and particularly his contribution to education and the improvement of roads in the county.
|
