Civil War history in Hamblen County’s largest city
Before there were quiet cul-de-sacs and neighborhood parks in Morristown, Tennessee, the East Tennessee & Virginia Railroad made the city a key player in the Civil War. In October of 1964, the Battle of Morristown, referred to locally as “Vaughn’s Stampede” after Confederate General John C. Vaughn, led to the deaths of dozens of soldiers, many of whom were buried outside of the Bethesda Presbyterian Church. Today, this 1830s brick building still stands tall just outside the city's limits and is now part of The Longstreet Museum, a reminder of a time before shopping malls and interstates. “It’s perfect if you like history stuff,” says Tim Rutherford, affiliate broker at Clinch Mountain Realty & Auction Co. Rutherford goes on to highlight Morristown's proximity to other historic towns like Russellville, Dandridge and Rogersville. In the decades following the Civil War, Morristown became an industrial hub, home to paper mills, J. F. Goodson Coffee Company and — most recently — Van Hool, a Belgian bus manufacturer. Today, the population hovers around 32,000 and continues to climb, but thanks to efforts by the Downtown Morristown Program the city has been able to blend revitalization and preservation, almost seamlessly.
The Longstreet Museum is one of many historical sites scattered throughout the Morristown area.
Morristown's neighboring town of Russellville has more civil war history with sites like Bethesda Church.
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High inventory and decade-spanning architecture
Housing options in Morristown span decades of architectural styles. Closer to downtown, prospective buyers will find early 20th century bungalows and American Foursquares situated on compact lots. Midcentury brick homes are the most common style in the city, but there are also pockets of post-2000s era New Traditionals. The median sale price for a single-family home hovers around $275,000, which is substantially lower than the national median of $420,000. According to Rutherford, “Inventory is a little higher right now,” whereas homes used to sell after an average of two weeks. Now Rutherford says it can take closer to two months due to increased interest rates. As the largest city in Hamblen County, Tennessee, Morristown also has one of the highest crime rates in the area. Rates are also slightly higher than national averages. Most incidents are reported in neighborhoods closer to downtown. With the exception of auto thefts, the last five years have seen a decrease in both property and violent crimes.
New Traditional homes rest atop many of the hills in Morristown.
Mid century brick split-levels are a popular style seen throughout Morristown.
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Cherokee Reservoir and public parks of varying sizes
According to Rutherford, one of Morristown’s most attractive features is its proximity to the water and mountains; there’s the Cherokee Reservoir to the north and Douglas Lake to the south. “We’ve got fishing and skiing and camping,” he says. There's also more than a dozen public parks within the city limits ranging in size from just a couple acres to more than 140. The largest is Frank Lorino Park and amenities include everything from skate ramps and youth athletic facilities to walking trails and disc golf. There’s an inclusive playground in the aptly named Jolley Park, and the Rotary Splash Pad is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Cherokee Reservoir is stocked with large and smallmouth bass, crappie and more, and there’s also a nearby boat dock and an archery club. There are indoor activities at the Talley Ward Recreation Center, which also hosts the Hot Wheels Derby in March and local golfers can invest in memberships at The Country Club, a Morristown institution since 1955.
Jolly Park offers a safe place for families to gather and play in Morristown.
Cherokee Park entices Morristown locals to enjoy the outdoors with its opportunities for boating.
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A downtown ‘Skymart’ and Main Street revitalization efforts
In Morristown, Rutherford says, “You got access to about any kind of shopping,” from the boutiques, trinket stores and cafes lining Historic Main Street to the fast-food chains and big-box stores along U.S. Route 11 East. As the broker mentions, the city worked to modernize the downtown district after flooding in the 1960s, and the result was an overhead sidewalk — a so-called “Skymart” — that’s still in use today. The system created a second, elevated “street” and a canopy for pedestrians below. Morristown is looking to further revitalize its famous “Skymart” district with the help of a four-point approach designed by the National Main Street Program. So far, additions have included a new ramp, and there’s also an active calendar of community events which includes an outdoor farmers market during warmer months, First Fridays at the Downtown Green and a Christmas Parade. Residents will find more shopping opportunities at the College Square Mall, which is home to approximately 50 retailers. Morristown’s cultural diversity is also reflected in its food scene and residents will find a healthy mix of casual Mexican joints, southern comforts and even a few Greek restaurants.
Morristown's historic Main Street is lined with unique shops selling all kinds of trinkets.
College Square Mall offers Morristown residents a robust shopping experience with almost 50 retailers.
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The Rose Center and the Crockett Tavern Museum
Established in the late 19th century, the brick building that once housed the Rose School is now an arts and cultural center in Morristown. Here, residents can take classes on illustrating or cake decorating, attend concerts or visit the gallery of rotating exhibits. According to Rutherford, the Rose Center also hosts annual events like the Mountain Makins Festival, an arts and crafts fair held each October. Other historic sites within the city include the Crockett Tavern Museum, which honors the American folk hero and sells pioneering tools at its gift shop.
The Rose Center in Morristown offers classes, concerts, and a rotating gallery exhibits.
Crockett Tavern Museum in Morristown pays tribute to the American folk hero.
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A ‘mutual spot’ with access to larger cities, airports and more
Rutherford describes Morristown as a “mutual spot” in the middle of everything: country, mountains, water and urban centers. “A lot of people come to Morristown because it’s close to everything,” he says, adding, “You can get to the city in less than an hour, and most people rely on their own vehicles [rather than public transit].” Lakeway Transit offers three fixed bus routes throughout Morristown and the proximity of Interstate 40 allows for easy access to both Knoxville and Gatlinburg, both about 50 miles away. Within Morristown’s city limits, it’s common for residents to work for major employers like the Hamblen County Department of Education, Koch Foods or MAHLE Powertrain, and the Morristown Regional Airport is open to the public. Commercial flights are accessible out of the Tri-Cities Airport or the Knoxville Airport. Medical care — from emergency visits to pediatric appointments — is also available through the Morristown-Hamblen Healthcare System.
Interstate 40 provides access to Knoxville and Gatlinburg, each about an hour drive from Morristown.
Morristown residents can usually travel to Knoxville in under an hour.
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The Hamblen County School District and a community college
Students can attend schools within the Hamblen County School District, which, along with earning an overall B grade from Niche, is also one of the area’s largest employers. Over 10,000 students are spread across 18 schools. Morristown is also home to Walters State Community College and educational opportunities are also available at the Morristown-Hamblen Library. Programs at the library include fitness classes for adults, “read to a dog” events in the Children’s Room and Dungeons and Dragons meet-ups.
Morristown is home to Walters State Community College which serves students in the area.
Morristown-Hamblen Library in Morristown offers adult fitness classes, Dungeons and Dragons meet-ups, and more.
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Written By
Sara Caskey
Video By
Daniel Willingham
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Tanya Price,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Morristown, TN sell after 35 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Morristown, TN over the last 12 months is $325,000, up 14% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
OPEN HOUSE! Friday, March 20th from 5-7PM and Saturday, March 21st from 2-4PM!Welcome home to this gorgeous 4-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom residence located in the desirable Southwood Subdivision of Morristown, TN. Built in 2025, this almost new, two-story home offers 2,174 sq. ft. of beautifully designed living space on a level lot in a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood.Step inside to an
A must see Frank Betz designed open concept executive home with hardwood flooring and tile throughout the upper and main level. Numerous arches and columns help accentuate the openness and uniqueness of this home designed especially for those who like to entertain. Special features include spacious masterbedrooms on both the main and upper levels. Walk-in closets throughout the home. This
MOTIVATED SELLERS! Family needs to downsize. Bring all offers. Here is your opportunity to own a piece of Morristown History. Built in 1905 as a premier residence for Hamblen Counties first resident doctor. Lovingly renovated and restored, this home has too much to list! Boasting 7 bedrooms and 5 full baths. The large front porch welcomes visitors as they enter the foyer, with it's oak beamed
Main Level Living, End Unit Townhome! This beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 3 bath home offers the ease of main level living in a desirable end unit with a 2-car garage. The open concept living and dining areas flow seamlessly into the kitchen, creating the perfect space for everyday living or entertaining. The space features gleaming hardwood floors, wainscotting and elegant crown molding
Welcome to this spacious and well-appointed four-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath home, ideally located in the Summitt Greene Subdivision. Thoughtfully designed with an open-concept main level, the heart of the home seamlessly connects the kitchen, dining, and living areas—perfect for everyday living and entertaining.Conveniently located just steps from the kitchen, the attached garage makes
Excellent building lot with gorgeous views of Cherokee Lake and the mountains. Nice gentle roll. Access to subdivision amenities with annual HOA fee of $900. Gated community. Less than an hour from the Tri Cities, Smoky Mountains and Knoxville. Adjacent lot available as well. 2441 Starboard is also available and seller is motivated to sell them together. Call agent for more information.
Spacious 5-bedroom, 4-bath condo located in the desirable Windridge Point community. This well-designed floor plan offers generous living space on both the main and lower levels. The main level features a formal dining room, great room with gas log fireplace, and a kitchen with breakfast nook. The primary ensuite bedroom is conveniently located on the main level, along with a second bedroom and
Welcome to Windswept! Build your dream home on this.8-acre lot with beautiful views of Cherokee lake and the Smoky Mountains. This premiere gated community feature underground utilities, including sewer and fiber optics, sidewalks throughout most of the subdivision, a private boat ramp for lake access, a marina and a one-of-a-kind Manor House. This unique 10,000 square feet home/clubhouse was
Discover the beauty of East Tennessee with this 1.35-acre tract on Fish Hatchery Road in Morristown. Featuring gently rolling terrain and scenic countryside views, this property offers the perfect opportunity to build your dream home in a peaceful rural setting while still being just minutes from town. This lot is part of a larger collection of available tracts that may be purchased individually
Welcome home to 1626 Cardinal Drive, where beautiful curb appeal and an incredible location come together to create the perfect place to call home. Nestled in a highly convenient area of Morristown, this beautiful property offers comfort, space, and thoughtful design throughout. Step inside to an open floor plan that flows effortlessly, making the home ideal for both everyday living and
Welcome to Universal at Thompson Creek and the charming town of Morristown, Tennessee, where tranquility meets modern living. Whether you're a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to settle in a friendly neighborhood, our leasing options cater to your unique lifestyle with 1, 2 and 3-bedroom apartment and townhomes.We believe better living should be accessible for
3 bed 2.5 bath with Garage.Newer townhome in city limits of Morristown.Walk in closet, recessed lighting, Stainless appliances, laundry room close to bedrooms.New community, street lights, trash service, lawn care all included.
Conveniently located adjacent to Highway 25E and Walters State Community College - near College Square Mall and Crockett Square shopping complex in Morristown, Tennessee. Collegewood Apartments offers a variety of amenities you will not find anywhere else in Morristown - such as spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartments with washer/dryer connections, water, sewer, basic cable TV service, and WiFi
Spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bath home available for rent in Morristown. This well-maintained property features comfortable living areas and a fully fenced-in yard--perfect for pets. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and major routes. Pets welcome. Rent is $2,300 per month.
for LeaseAlmost complete, New construction.This is the double Master bedroom plan.Ideal for roommates each bedroom has its own private full bath.Modern feel, Recessed lighting, stainless appliances, sidewalks, street lighting, lawn care included.Close to Highway 160 in city limits of morristown tn.
We offer a complex of furnished apartments as well as single family homes, both furnished and unfurnished. We provide upscale, clean, comfortable accommodations, with first-class amenities. These little touches aren’t luxuries–they’re counterweights to the stress of a busy business life.Executive Place is our flagship property and offers ten upscale furnished apartments. These one-
Step inside this inviting 2-bedroom 1-bath apartment with a distinctive brick facade that sets the tone for a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Make yourself at home in this open floor plan, allowing natural light to brighten up the entire space with lovely warm wooden floors and an inviting well-equipped kitchen for your culinary needs. The good-sized bedrooms offer relaxation with ample closet
Welcome home to Ashton View Apartments, a welcoming apartment community offering spacious living and stunning scenery in Morristown.Perfectly positioned near Jefferson City, Rutledge, and Bulls Gap, Ashton View provides easy access to everyday conveniences while keeping you close to some of East Tennessee’s most loved destinations. Enjoy weekend adventures just a short drive away in
Property Id: 1717144Welcome home to Ashton View and Village at Barkley Apartments in Morristown, Tennessee! Our apartment community is centrally located to the Jefferson City, Rutledge, and Bulls Gap area and just a short drive from the excitement at Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. We offer 2 and 3 bedroom floor plans with an abundance of closet space and breathtaking views of the Smoky
Property Id: 2200897Your Dream Home, ElevatedWelcome home to Ashton View and Village at Barkley Apartments in Morristown, Tennessee! Our apartment community is centrally located to the Jefferson City, Rutledge, and Bulls Gap area and just a short drive from the excitement at Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. We offer 2 and 3 bedroom floor plans with an abundance of closet space and
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