Hamblem’s Historic Hayslope House Joins Civil War Trails

Last month the historic Hayslope house joined the multi-state Civil War Trails tourism program. The program directs travelers to over 1,500 sites across six states, and Hayslope is the latest addition to the 360 sites in Tennessee. This is the fourth Civil War Trails site in Hamblen County and is an important moment for the property owner and for the local economy.

Hayslope was a headquarters during the winter of 1863-1864 and was also the scene of an arduous camp for Southern soldiers. Hayslope’s owner KC Wildmoon said, “From the time I was a young history buff, I wanted to restore Hayslope to take its place in the vivid history of East Tennessee.” KC hopes to live there in the new future and open the property to the public on a limited basis besides for special events and tours. The new Civil War Trails sign in the yard helps visitors understand what unfolded there on the grounds and in the immediate vicinity.

Hayslope’s new designation also means it will now appear on marketing materials produced by Civil War Trails Inc. and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. These materials are stocked in welcome and visitor centers and are distributed to travelers from around the world. Beyond this work, the team at Civil War Trails will be working with Anne Ross, the director of tourism for Hamblen County to promote the site. Their efforts bring visitors to Hamblen County, resulting in a strong fiscal return for local businesses.

“Heritage tourists helped to contribute to the $96,815,800 direct economic impact visitors had on the Morristown/Hamblen County,” said Anne. Her enthusiasm was mirrored by Mark Ezell, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, who said that “Tennessee’s historic sites and trails play a vital role in preserving our history while also inspiring tourism. As more families than ever before explore the rich culture and heritage that define our state, they support local businesses, drive revenue, and create jobs for Tennesseans.” Furthermore, according to the Civil War Trails program not only is there increasing interest in the program, but their visitors are growing increasingly younger and tend to stay three to four nights when they travel.

Hayslope House is located at 352 Warrensburg Rd., Russellville, Tennessee. Be sure to snap a #signselfie when you visit and post it with #civilwartrails and #tnsoundsperfect. Find out more information about visiting Hamblen County at www.visitmorristowntn.com. Follow Civil War Trails and create some history of your own.