Welcome to Downtown Kingsport, a place rich with history and significance. Our journey today takes us through the pivotal moments that shaped this vibrant area, beginning with its founding in the early 19th century. Originally chartered in 1822, Kingsport was named after ‘King’s Port,’ a reference to the area on the Holston River known as King’s Boat Yard. This site was a critical point for navigation and trade, marking the head of navigation for the Tennessee Valley.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, flatboats were a common sight here, essential for transporting settlers and supplies along the waterways. One of the most notable flatboat journeys was led by Colonel John Donelson in 1779, with a fleet of about thirty flatboats departing Kingsport and reaching what is now Nashville in 1780. This historic voyage is commemorated by a replica flatboat displayed at the Netherland Inn, a testament to the city’s early contributions to westward expansion.
Kingsport’s strategic location also played a role during the Civil War. The Battle of Kingsport in December 1864 saw a small Confederate force hold off a much larger Union army for nearly two days, demonstrating the area’s military significance.
As we move into the 20th century, Kingsport was re-chartered in 1917 and transformed into a ‘Model City,’ designed by city planner John Nolen. This innovative plan organized the town into distinct areas for commerce, housing, and industry, showcasing the city’s progressive vision.
Throughout its history, Kingsport has been visited by notable figures including Daniel Boone and George Rogers Clark, who passed through on their pioneering journeys. Today, the Downtown Kingsport Association continues to preserve and celebrate this rich heritage, ensuring that the stories of the past remain a vital part of the city’s living history.
