(from the archived RCHC Web Site)

Welcome to Roane County, Tennessee. With a population of about of about 48,000 people and growing, Roane County is quickly becoming the residential center for people working in Knoxville and Oak Ridge. We are also proud of our rich past which is kept alive by those involved in the Roane County Heritage Commission (RCHC).

The land that is now Roane County was opened up to westward expansion by such forts as Southwest Point in 1790 at Kingston. This brought the first settlers, the Brashears and Roberts family in 1794, to the area. Also read about the county’s creation. In 1807 Kingston served as state capital for one day. Many famous Individuals lived in Roane County once. People like Dixie Crosby, Sam Houston, and famed Speaker of the House Sam Rayburn.

The RCHC is housed in the old Roane County courthouse at Kingston, which the RCHC owns. Built in 1854-55, it stands as one of six courthouses left in Tennessee built before the civil war. The unique architecture that goes into its construction makes it a rare find. The survival of the building depends solely on profits brought in by the RCHC. Joining as a Member of the RCHC provides some incoming monies and we have applied for some major federal grants in which we were turned down for them all. Due to lack of funds, the building is in much need of a facelift or it faces total destruction. The RCHC faces obstacles everyday. lack of money and the ever present individuals who want to see the building demolished and a parking lot laid. Things are looking up though, and your donations would be greatly appreciated in saving the old courthouse. It is a tax deductible gift. To make a donation or to seek more info: e-mail the RCHC at [non-working], call (865) 376-9211, or write us at:

(mailing address remains current in 2025)

THE ROANE COUNTY HERITAGE COMMISSION
P.O. BOX 738
KINGSTON, TENNESSEE 37763