Immerse Yourself in Johnson City’s Local History and Culture

News Summary

Join us in Johnson City for a month filled with exciting events celebrating local history at the Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site. From a soldier reenactment on March 29 to the 22nd Annual Maple Syrup Festival on February 8 and the 25th Annual Sorghum Festival on September 21, there’s something for everyone. Explore delicious food, historical demonstrations, and community bonding throughout these fun-filled experiences. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to delve into our rich heritage while creating unforgettable memories!

Exciting Events Set to Immerse Johnson City in Local History and Culture!

Johnson City is buzzing with excitement! This March, the Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site is gearing up to host a series of enchanting events that will take everyone on a journey back in time. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun day out with the family, there’s something for everyone right in our backyard!

March 29: A Day in the Life of Soldiers

On Saturday, March 29, the Department of East Tennessee will be at the historic site, providing a fascinating glimpse into the lives of soldiers during wartime. Visitors will have the opportunity to study how soldiers lived in camp, which is a unique experience that only Tipton-Haynes can offer.

Imagine examining a variety of uniforms from the period and getting to understand the materials and designs that kept soldiers comfortable in the field. But that’s not all – attendees will also be treated to a real live demonstration! Watch as soldiers drill and follow commands from officers. You might even feel like you’re stepping right into a history book!

For those curious about the tools of the trade, an array of weapons used during the war will be on display, allowing participants to explore and learn more about the era’s military equipment.

Your Pancake Fix: The 22nd Annual Maple Syrup Festival

Before you know it, the 22nd Annual Maple Syrup Festival and Pancake Breakfast is just around the corner! Set your calendars for Saturday, February 8, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Tipton-Haynes. It’s not just any festival; this one is a sweet treat for your taste buds and an excellent way for families to bond.

Ready for a stack of pancakes drenched in pure maple syrup? The festival offers mouthwatering pancakes, and let’s not forget the amazing local food trucks and vendors. There are also homemade crafts for everyone to enjoy, perfect for picking up a unique souvenir!

Get Ready for the 25th Annual Sorghum Festival!

As the year rolls on, mark your calendars for another much-anticipated event – the 25th Annual Sorghum Festival happening on Saturday, September 21, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. This festival doesn’t just celebrate sorghum; it showcases the heritage of our community! Watch the processing of sorghum cane into molasses and learn about the traditional methods used.

Don’t miss the charming demonstration featuring a friendly mule named Maggie who will be busy turning cast iron rollers during the molasses-making process. And if you’re feeling hungry, there’s a special sorghum breakfast served from 8-11 a.m.. Think biscuits with gravy, sausage, bacon, eggs, oatmeal, and grits – all the breakfast classics you love!

While you’re there, take some time to tour the historic structures, enjoy local bluegrass and folk music, and unleash your spirit of adventure in the historic cave that’s open for exploration. Classic and antique car enthusiasts will enjoy the display by the Model A Mac’s group. Plus, catch the intriguing showcase of hit-and-miss engines from the East Tennessee Antique Engine Association!

Admission Fees and Special Purchases

Admission for these exciting events is just $6 for adults and $3 for children aged 12 and under. And for the little ones under 3, it’s free! Just a heads up, if you want to enjoy the sorghum breakfast, there is an extra $2 fee. Don’t forget to stock up on some delicious sorghum molasses for home, available at $8 per pint and $4 per half pint.

Beyond the Festivals: Year-Round Fun!

These events aren’t the only time to embrace local history. Throughout the year, Tipton-Haynes hosts reenactments of historical events like the famous Battle of the State of Franklin! And if you’re a fan of Celtic culture, be on the lookout for the Upper East Tennessee Celtic Festival on August 30 and 31, complete with Highland games and local artisanal crafts.

With so much happening at the Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site, it’s clear that this is a fantastic spot to dive deeper into our community’s rich history and have a worthwhile day of fun. Don’t miss out on these memorable experiences and mark your calendars today!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Additional Resources

• Johnson City Press: Maple Syrup Festival
• Wikipedia: Maple Syrup
• Greeneville Sun: State of Franklin Celebration
• Google Search: State of Franklin
• Smoky Mountain News: Sorghum Festival
• Google Scholar: Sorghum Festival
• Elizabethton: Upper E.T. Celtic Festival
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Celtic Festival
• Johnson City Press: Battle of the State of Franklin
• Google News: Battle of the State of Franklin