THE RICH HISTORY AND VIBRANT APPALACHIAN CULTURE THAT BUILT GATLINBURG

Nestled within the picturesque beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a charming town with a rich history that has shaped its identity as a beloved tourist destination. Mountain Laurel Chalets is proud to be headquatered here, representing our fabulous city as the preferred vacation rental management company in the area.

From its humble beginnings as a small settlement to its current status as a bustling resort town, Gatlinburg's journey is one of resilience, adaptation, and community spirit. We're thrilled to share a bit of background about the city's rich history, but reading about it isn't enough. One must come visit Gatlinburg to get a full picture of just how great our Smoky Mountain town truly is. 

THE EARLY SETTLERS AND BEGINNINGS

Long before it became a popular tourist destination, Gatlinburg was home to the indigenous Cherokee people. However, as European settlers began to explore and colonize the region, the native populations were gradually displaced. In the early 1800s, Radford Gatlin, a descendant of an early colonial family, settled in the area and established a general store. Over time, a small community began to develop around this store, which became a central gathering point for local residents. The town's name, Gatlinburg, pays homage to this early settler.

RESILIENCE IN THE FACE OF CHALLENGES

Gatlinburg faced its fair share of challenges throughout its history. One of the most significant was the Civil War, during which the town suffered from division and economic hardships. Despite these challenges, the community persevered, demonstrating a remarkable spirit of resilience and determination.

LOGGING AND THE EVOLUTION OF INDUSTRY

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Gatlinburg's economy shifted towards logging and timber industries. The dense forests of the surrounding mountains provided ample resources, leading to a boom in the logging industry. This period of industrialization brought both economic opportunities and environmental concerns, as the lush forests began to dwindle. However, as the logging era waned, the town's focus shifted to tourism due to the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Entrepreneurs recognized the appeal of the region and began to cater to visitors seeking the tranquility and splendor of the area.

TOURISM BOOM AND CULTURAL RENAISSANCE

Gatlinburg's transformation into a tourist destination gained momentum after the establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1934. The park's opening attracted visitors eager to explore its scenic beauty, sparking a tourism boom in Gatlinburg. Motels, cabins, and attractions began to spring up, catering to the increasing number of travelers. The town also experienced a cultural renaissance during this time, with artisans and craftsmen moving to the area to showcase their skills and creations. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, founded in 1937, became one of the nation's largest communities of independent artisans, further enhancing Gatlinburg's unique appeal.

MODERN GATLINBURG: A BLEND OF TRADITION AND INNOVATION

As the years passed, Gatlinburg evolved to meet the demands of modern tourism while preserving its historic charm. The town's main street, lined with quaint shops, galleries, and eateries, provides a glimpse into its past while offering modern amenities and experiences. Gatlinburg's commitment to environmental sustainability is also evident in its efforts to protect the surrounding natural beauty. The town has taken steps to preserve the integrity of the Great Smoky Mountains and promote eco-friendly practices.

Gatlinburg's history is a testament to the power of adaptation, community, and the allure of nature's beauty. From its early days as a settlement to its status as a sought-after tourist destination, Gatlinburg's journey reflects the importance of honoring the past while embracing progress. As visitors continue to explore the town's historic streets and take in the breathtaking mountain vistas, they become a part of the ongoing story of Gatlinburg, a story that continues to evolve and captivate.

As always, we'd love to host you should you decide to come to town and experience Gatlinburg for yourself. We have a large and ever-growing portfolio of rental properties, each fully outfitted for your stay. Check out our variety of properties and book your Smoky Mountain stay today!