Ian You may be a little surprised to find this smallish city, not known for tourism, on this website. The truth is that the majority of my family lives in this region so I have been up here many times. A lot has changed since the 1980s. It has become a sort of regional healthcare center, and now has the McMansions that go along with it. The area hasn’t lost its Appalachian rolling farmland entirely. Away from the city center you will be greeted by plenty of quiet pastureland where time goes a little slower. The Appalachian trail runs nearby, there are plenty of other hiking trails around, and a newly discovered fossil site is down the road. It is worth a visit, if even just to drive down some of the old country roads to see the old barns or to see the leaves changing in fall.
History
The Rich Tapestry of Johnson City, Tennessee: A Historical Overview
Nestled in the heart of East Tennessee, Johnson City offers a captivating blend of history, industry, and tourism. Its evolution from a modest rail junction to a regional nexus of culture and commerce paints a vivid portrait of resilience, creativity, and community spirit.
The Early Days
The origins of Johnson City can be traced to the mid-18th century when early settlers, mainly of Scottish and Irish descent, began putting down roots in the region. However, the town’s destiny shifted profoundly in the 1850s with the advent of the East Tennessee & Virginia Railroad.
Railroads and Rapid Growth
Henry Johnson, for whom the city is named, established a railroad station in 1856, known as “Johnson’s Depot”. This depot served as a strategic fulcrum during the Civil War, becoming a crucial supply point for both the Union and Confederate armies. The post-war era saw the railroads stimulate economic growth, drawing merchants, entrepreneurs, and settlers to the region.
The Eastman Influence
While headquartered in nearby Kingsport, the Eastman Chemical Company, an offshoot of Eastman Kodak, profoundly impacted the entire Tri-Cities region, Johnson City included. Founded in the 1920s, Eastman became a leading employer, fostering economic growth and influencing community dynamics. Johnson City, with its proximity, benefited from Eastman’s presence, seeing its own landscape shaped by the company’s infrastructure, educational, and cultural initiatives.
A Hub for Tourism
Tourism is one of Johnson City’s shining jewels. The city, with its beautiful Appalachian backdrop, offers a mix of natural wonders and historic sites. Winged Deer Park, with its serene lakeside trails, and the Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site, showcasing centuries of Tennessee history, are among the many attractions. Additionally, the city’s downtown area, which underwent significant revitalization, attracts visitors with its mix of eateries, boutiques, and cultural experiences. Festivals, music events, and farmer’s markets further enrich the tourist experience, making Johnson City a must-visit destination.
In Conclusion
From its early days as a strategic rail depot to its current standing as a hub of industry and tourism, Johnson City’s journey is a testament to vision, determination, and community engagement. Its history is not just a chronicle of events, but a story of people, progress, and pride.
Transportation
Basically there is no way to get around Johnson City without a car. I never even knew there was a bus service until researching for this post. I would highly recommend renting a car, if just to drive around on the beautiful country roads. You might spot a bald eagle:
- Personal Vehicles: As with many smaller cities, personal vehicles are a common mode of transportation. Johnson City’s road infrastructure is well-maintained, making driving a convenient option. There are ample parking facilities in downtown areas and major shopping centers.
- Taxis and Rideshare Services: Taxis are available, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate in Johnson City, offering easy, on-demand transportation.
- Public Bus Service: Operated by the Johnson City Transit (JCT), the public bus service provides affordable and convenient transportation within the city limits (which are small). JCT offers multiple routes covering key areas of the city, making it a possible option for daily commutes, shopping, or visiting local attractions, but, not really suggested.
- Biking: The city has been working on expanding its bike-friendly routes. There are designated bike lanes and paths in several areas, making cycling a viable option for both recreation and commuting.
- Walking: For those living or working in the downtown area, walking can be a convenient option. Johnson City has a walkable downtown area with sidewalks and crosswalks, making it pedestrian-friendly.
- Tri-Cities Airport: Located approximately 15 miles from Johnson City, in Blountville, the Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) is the nearest commercial airport. It provides regional and connecting flights, making air travel accessible for longer-distance trips.
- Rail Service: While there is no passenger rail service directly in Johnson City, nearby cities like Bristol and Kingsport are stops for freight rail services. Passenger rail services can be accessed in cities further afield.
- Inter-City Bus Services: Companies like Greyhound provide bus services to and from Johnson City, connecting it to other cities and towns.
- Car Rentals: Several car rental agencies operate in Johnson City, offering services for visitors and residents who need temporary personal transportation.
Remember, the choice of transportation can depend on various factors like distance, convenience, cost, and personal preference. Johnson City’s infrastructure supports a mix of these options to accommodate the needs of its residents and visitors.
Tips
- You really should rent a car if you go, and I suggest taking backroads between destinations.
- The Appalachian trail runs through the area for those hikers who like low to moderate hiking
- Autumn is a great time to go drive through the mountains to experience the leaves change color
- Dollywood is nearby, and so is Bristol Motor Speedway, and the city of Bristol, obviously
