#Great Smoky Mountains National Park

[deletingmyself]

(by Wes Hicks)| Tennessee, US

[wandering-jana]

The Sinks, created by diverting the river for a lumber railroad that used to run where the modern road is today.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Sept. 2021

[flyingiseasy-landingnotsomuch]

The road to Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Oct 2023

[lowcountry-gothic]

The Iconic Wildlife of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, by Tom Whalen.

[activistsky]

National Parks have experienced massive layoffs. Around 1,000 people have been laid off. Many are now homeless.

Our Natural Parks are under attack.

Links under cut.

[sitting-on-me-bum]

Little River Autumn Canopy

Exploring dirt roads and tiny waterfalls framed by radiant autumn color under diffuse, overcast light is my idea of a blissfully perfect fall day. This classic scene found in the Great Smoky Mountains NP provided inspiration to slow down, breathe in the cool air, and appreciate the incredible diversity of woodland in the park.

By Optimal Focus Photography

[tree-whispering]

9.29.23

[rabbitcruiser]

The United States Great Smoky Mountains National Park was founded on June 15, 1934.  

[shutterandsentence]

Let's go to the lake!

Photo: Fontana, North Carolina

[cachien]

deep in my feelings about hurricane helene, wondering if people even know about cherokee, nc, and the res that was affected there

i went to college in north alabama and frequently took trips into the mountains, coming in via the "tail of the dragon," a winding section of hwy 111 connecting tn to west nc. it spits you out near tapoco dam and about an hour away you can loop through cherokee and bryson's city to get to clingman's dome, the highest point in smoky mountains national park. i went through there probably a half-dozen times in college and went back for my honeymoon in june.

i just saw a video of the flooding at cherokee island park and it just broke my heart. as far as i know, the res in that area depends largely on tourism. there's a lot of emphasis on cherokee cultural heritage, some of which does seem over-emphasized because it's good for tourism. there's dozens of absolutely beautiful waterfalls, some of them 100+ ft, near the town. there's always elk nearby, especially in the fall the road from cherokee to bryson city has a field where there's almost always entire herds of elk and cars lining the shoulder for miles as people take pictures.

and i don't know how bad the damage is there but i know their economy is going to suffer so intensely. the damaged roads are preventing people from getting there. local musicians are hosting free concerts with donations to help the town and people can't get there to donate. my heart was already aching for asheville and boone, places incredibly special to me from the years i lived in south carolina and would travel up there for mountain vacations, but seeing floods in cherokee just broke my heart.

i've never a single time posted to tumblr asking people to donate but please, if you can, help these communities recover. the cherokee people in nc have such a rich, beautiful display of who they are and it's agonizing to think of them losing that, after losing so much else, because of the economic repercussions of helene blocking transportation to the area and resource scarcity in the mountains making it detrimental for tourism to happen right now in many areas. cherokee has said they're open to visitors, but be watchful if you visit the mountains of where you travel through and where you take resources from.

anyway here's a video from the chief of the EBCI (eastern band of cherokee indians) in cherokee nc talking about relief efforts and progress and from the link in bio he says you can find more info about how to help

[wandering-jana]

Deep Creek.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina

Sept. 2021

[terebelli]

📷 Christopher Ewing

[lowcountry-gothic]

An Autumn Pasture, Cades Cove, Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Photo by Robby Edwards.

[dopescissorscashwagon]

Happy Monday!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

📸 by SlavomiraVac2

Click on photo

[sitting-on-me-bum]

“A cool drink”

“A bull elk stopping in the Oconaluftee River in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to a refreshing drink.”

© Alan Taylor

2023 Nature Conservancy photo contest

[rabbitcruiser]

Tennessee was admitted as the 16th state of the United States on June 1, 1796.    

Statehood Day in Tennessee

Statehood Day in Tennessee bursts with excitement each June 1st, marking the day Tennessee joined the Union in 1796 as the 16th state.

This special day is not just a local celebration but a vibrant reminder of Tennessee’s unique contributions to the nation’s history.

It’s a day filled with pride for Tennesseans, who celebrate not only their past achievements but also the dynamic culture that continues to evolve within their state.

The importance of Statehood Day stretches beyond mere commemoration. It embodies the spirit of unity and civic pride. Tennesseans and visitors alike engage in activities that highlight the state’s rich history and cultural significance.

From visiting historical sites to participating in community events, the day offers a multitude of ways to connect with Tennessee’s heritage.

Museums, like the Tennessee State Museum, often host special events that provide insights into the state’s journey to statehood and its development over the centuries.

Ultimately, Statehood Day fosters a sense of community and historical awareness. It’s a time to reflect on the state’s journey and celebrate its ongoing story.

Whether it’s through exploring museums, enjoying local music, or learning about Tennessee’s pivotal moments, the day offers something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy, strengthening the bond among its people and visitors.​

History of Statehood Day in Tennessee

Statehood Day in Tennessee marks the state’s entry into the Union in 1796 as the 16th state. Its journey to statehood began earlier, in 1790, when Tennessee became the Southwest Territory.

Under Governor William Blount, the territory aimed to meet the population requirement of 60,000 free male residents to gain statehood.

By 1795, a census revealed that the Southwest Territory had met this requirement. Tennessee then petitioned Congress for statehood, a bold move inspired by its people’s resilience and desire for representation.

On June 1, 1796, Congress approved Tennessee’s petition, marking a significant milestone in the state’s history.

Statehood Day celebrates Tennessee’s rich history and the bold vision of its founders. Today, it reminds people of Tennessee’s contributions to American culture and politics, showcasing its vibrant heritage.

The day brings together Tennesseans to celebrate their shared history and future​.

How to Celebrate Statehood Day in Tennessee

Get Historical at Museums

Celebrate Statehood Day by exploring Tennessee’s past in museums. Dive into captivating exhibits showcasing artifacts and documents that reveal how this state came to be.

Feel the history come alive while learning about the journey from territory to statehood​​.

Parade with Pride

Join a local parade to show your love for Tennessee’s statehood. March down the streets waving flags and shouting for joy. Get dressed in red, white, and blue, and join your neighbors in celebrating the state’s legacy​.

Reenactment Revelry

Step back in time with reenactments of Tennessee’s early days. Watch history buffs portray early settlers, soldiers, and politicians who helped shape Tennessee’s identity.

Marvel at their attention to detail while they bring the olden days to life.

Crafting Celebrations

Get creative with Statehood Day crafts. Make art that celebrates Tennessee’s symbols, from the mockingbird to the iris. Share your masterpieces with friends and spread the statehood joy all around​​.

Musical Melodies

Embrace Tennessee’s rich musical heritage. Attend local concerts or jam out to your favorite Tennessee-born artists at home. Let the tunes bring rhythm to your celebrations.​

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