East Tennessee Historical Society and Museum

The East Tennessee Historical Society and Museum is a unique cultural center located in the vibrant downtown of Knoxville. Founded back in 1834, the organization is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich heritage of the USA, specifically the region covering 35 counties of East Tennessee.

The museum is housed in the majestic Old Customs House, recognized as an architectural gem of Knoxville. Here, modern exhibition halls, a museum shop, and invaluable research collections coexist under one roof. This site serves as a bridge between the past and the present, telling the stories of the people who shaped the region over centuries.

With high ratings and expert recognition, the museum is considered a must-visit for anyone wishing to understand the true spirit of Appalachia. From interactive displays to rare archival documents, every corner of the center is steeped in respect for local history and culture.

To confirm details before your visit or to book group tours, you can use the following contact information:

The main highlight for any visitor is the permanent exhibition, "Voices of the Land." This captivating chronological journey through the centuries introduces the lives of early settlers, industrial development, and the daily lives of regional residents from Chattanooga to Bristol. Numerous authentic artifacts and documents are complemented by interactive elements that make history accessible and alive.

In addition to the permanent galleries, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions dedicated to prominent figures, art, or significant events in Tennessee life. For those interested in their roots, the Calvin M. McClung Historical Collection is open to the public. It is one of the best archives in the country for genealogy research, where you can find rare books and family chronicles.

Families with children will enjoy the educational programs, while collectors and souvenir hunters will appreciate the variety in the museum shop. Public lectures and meetings with historians are also frequently held here, making a visit to the East Tennessee History Center rewarding for both tourists and professional researchers alike.

The East Tennessee History Center is located in the heart of downtown, at the intersection of Gay Street and Clinch Avenue. Thanks to its central location, the Old Customs House is easily accessible on foot from popular tourist spots like Market Square.

If you are planning to arrive by car, use the address 601 S Gay St. Several municipal parking options are available nearby, including the Knoxville Station and State Street Garage, as well as paid on-street parking. For those preferring public transit, the KAT (Knoxville Area Transit) bus system has routes running directly along Gay Street.

Travelers arriving from further away typically use Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), located about 20 minutes from downtown. From the terminal, the most convenient way to reach the museum is by taxi or by ordering a ride through Uber or Lyft. The city can also be reached by intercity buses, with a terminal located within walking distance of the history center.

The foundation of this organization dates back to the mid-19th century. On May 5, 1834, prominent citizens, including the noted historian J.G.M. Ramsey, established the society to save the state's early history "from oblivion." Ramsey personally preserved valuable documents and artifacts in his home for a long time, later using them as the basis for his fundamental work, "The Annals of Tennessee."

Throughout its history, the society has experienced several periods of revival. In 1883, veterans took up the cause, and in 1925, the initiative was revitalized by librarians and professors from the University of Tennessee. Since 1929, the organization has published its annual scholarly journal, known today as the Journal of East Tennessee History.

The modern era for the museum began in the 1980s when it moved its headquarters into the magnificent Old Customs House, built in 1874. This architectural treasure made of pink marble is an exhibit in itself. In 1993, a full-scale museum was officially opened within its walls, and a major renovation in 2008 transformed it into a modern, world-class research and exhibition complex.

To leisurely explore the main exhibition and view the temporary displays, most visitors need about 2 to 3 hours. This is usually enough time to see the key artifacts and explore the museum's interactive zones.

However, if your goal is genealogical research in the famous Calvin M. McClung Historical Collection or working with archival documents, you should allocate at least 4–5 hours or even a full day. The research center offers a vast amount of information that history buffs can easily get lost in for hours.

The museum is open to visitors all week, though hours vary depending on the day. Monday through Friday, the center's doors are open from 09:00 to 16:00. On Saturday, the museum operates from 10:00 to 16:00, and on Sunday, there are reduced hours from 13:00 to 17:00.

Please note that holidays may affect the schedule. Before your trip, it is highly recommended to check the current operating hours on the official website or by phone to ensure your visit goes as smoothly as possible.

A visit to the history museum is just one part of what downtown has to offer. A stroll through the surrounding area will allow you to deeper experience the regional atmosphere and see other iconic sites within walking distance.