Sycamore Shoals State Park Presents History at Home Events: Carter Mansion and Sabine Hill Tours

Elizabethton – Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area has scheduled several events in early July for history aficionados and park-goers alike. Among these offerings are guided tours of the iconic Carter Mansion and Sabine Hill, landmarks of local and architectural importance.

Exploring the Carter Mansion

The Carter Mansion, located on Broad Street, holds the title of the oldest frame house in Tennessee. Constructed between 1775 and 1780 by the Carter family, it stands as a testament to early American architectural prowess. Tours of the historic mansion are scheduled on select dates from 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the charm and rich history of this edifice. The tour cost ranges from $5 to $10, depending on age and veteran status.

Federal Architecture Masterpiece: Sabine Hill

Similarly, the stately Sabine Hill, erected by Mary Patton Taylor, the widow of Brigadier Gen. Nathaniel Taylor. Sabine Hill is celebrated as one of Tennessee’s finest portrayals of Federal architecture. Tour participants will get a glimpse of its vibrant interior, crafted carefully with attention to architectural detail, that once housed the influential Taylor family in the early 19th century. Admission to Sabine Hill matches that of the Carter Mansion tour, combining to form an affordable, educational and fascinating experience. Please note, both tours features steps and interior staircases.

Experiencing Tunes of Time

Beyond architecture, Sycamore Shoals State Park invites the public to experience the historical significance of music with the “Tunes of the Times” event. Life on the 18th-century frontier, unpredictable and harsh, often found solace in melodies. The event, under the tutelage of Museum Curator Chad Bogart, gives park-goers an insight into the vibrant musical heritage of colonial America with emphasis on how diverse influences amplified and evolved the music we cherish today.

Stepping into Colonial Footsteps

“Walking in Frontier Footsteps” offers an interpretive guide through the grounds of Sycamore Shoals and along portions of the scenic walking path. Bogart again leads this tour, illustrating the historical events that transpired at Sycamore Shoals, bringing to light their importance in shaping our State and Country. Dress suitably to comfortably tread through potentially uneven terrain as part of this approximately 90-minute program.

A Rich Historical Experience

Through these engaging events, Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park offers a unique combination of history, architecture, music, and natural beauty for all to enjoy. Whether exploring the stately Carter Mansion, marvelling at Sabine Hill’s architectural splendour, tuning in to the melodies of the past, or retracing the steps of colonial settlers, visitors to the park are promised an enriching learning experience baked in historical grandeur.