Where does the Tennessee River begin and end?
The Tennessee River’s main navigable channel is 652 miles long. It begins a mile above Knoxville, Tenn., and eventually joins with the Ohio River at Paducah, Ky. Commercial navigation also extends into three major tributaries: 61 miles up the Clinch River, 29 miles up the Little Tennessee River and 22 miles up the Hiwassee River.
When did the first people live in the Tennessee River valley?
Historians believe that the first people to have lived in the Tennessee River Valley arriverd at least 8,000 years ago, based on excavations at Russell Cave in northern Alabama. The river was also home to the ancient Mound Builders who settled into the watershed more than 1,000 years ago.
Where did the Little Tennessee River get its name?
In addition, its tributary the Little Tennessee River, flowed into it from Western North Carolina and northeastern Georgia, where it also was bordered by numerous Cherokee towns. Its current name is derived from the Cherokee town, Tanasi, which was located on the Tennessee side of the Appalachian Mountains.
Why was the navigation of the Tennessee River important?
Navigation of the Tennessee River has always been a key to the economic development of the Tennessee Valley. Since Native Americans first loaded canoes into the Tennessee River, it had been used as an important mode of transportation for people and products.
What was the name of the dam on the Tennessee River?
The construction of TVA’s Kentucky Dam on the Tennessee River and the Corps of Engineers‘ Barkley Dam on the Cumberland River led to the development of associated lakes, and the creation of what is called Land Between the Lakes.
What to see and do on the Tennessee River?
One of our most favorite side-trips is cruising the Tennessee River from Pickwick Lock to Knoxville. This is simply a beautiful voyage with plenty to see and do along the way. With the Appalachian Mountains in the background, you will cruise along the steep Lookout Mountain before reaching Ruby Falls waterfall and Rock City.