Tipton-Haynes Historic Site and Museum

Tipton-Haynes Historic Site

The Tipton-Haynes Historic Site, commonly known as the Tipton-Haynes House, is a perfect representation of the southern plantation lifestyle. The house dates back to the 1700s and depicts life during the said period. It spans 45 acres, has 11 old structures, a limestone cave, buffalo remains, a library, and includes a unique educational center. The site is located on 2620 South Roan Street in Johnson City, Tennessee, and is managed by the Tennessee Historical Commission.

The Tipton-Haynes Museum

Visitors are encouraged to explore the site’s history, which has been transformed into an educational museum. This museum features rotating exhibits about local history; it houses relics from various periods.  A variety of displays, including a collection of paintings by Sheryl T. Cooper and records from the Simmerly family, teach visitors about the history of Northeast Tennessee.

The location is said to have been a halt on the old buffalo road, which was frequented by Cherokee and Woodland Indian tribes. Daniel Boone even paid a visit to the site, which has since been preserved.

Tipton and Haynes

The site is also the home of two important Confederate politicians: Tipton and Haynes.

A massive log mansion was built by Col. John Tipton, a former member of the Territorial Assembly. The mansion was later utilized as a battleground during the Battle in 1788 in Franklin, North Carolina. Tipton was a key figure in the establishment of Tennessee as the 16th state of the Union.

Following the death of the Tipton family, David Haynes bought the house and erected a Greek Revival portico. He eventually built a legal office in the style of a Greek revival temple next to the house. Haynes worked as a farmer, lawyer, newspaper editor, and Methodist clergyman for a short time. During the Civil War, he became a Confederate senator and received death threats from Unionists in East Tennessee. Despite the threat of murder, he ultimately opted to sell the land to a Jonesborough publisher.

The GhostWalk

The Tipton-Haynes Historic Site is not only magnificent to look at, but it is also rumored to be haunted. During the Tipton-Haynes GhostWalk, your guide was a blood cousin of a man who hewed wood for the buildings. He’ll tell you about Washington County’s early history as well as Native American history. You’ll also be able to take some keepsakes home with you.

Buffalo Mountain Park and the White Rock hike

Buffalo Mountain Park, which has well-defined hiking paths and offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, is another fantastic destination in the area. The White Rock hike provides spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Climb the slope and ride the zipline if you’re seeking an adrenaline rush!

The Tipton-Haynes Historic Site is indeed a great place for a family vacation!

Spend The Day At Willow Springs Park!