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
Debi Bartley,
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 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Morristown, TN over the last 12 months is $325,120, up 14% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home offers approximately 1,983 square feet of well-designed living space, including a newly finished basement that adds even more room to spread out. The split-level layout gives the home a nice balance—offering separation between the living spaces and bedrooms while still feeling connected and open. The kitchen is bright and functional, featuring a large island that's
Welcome to 504 McCrary Drive--beautifully updated and move-in ready in the heart of West Morristown! This 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers 2,322 sq ft of thoughtfully redesigned living space, with extensive updates completed in 2023.Step inside to a fresh, modern interior featuring all new windows, flooring, plumbing, and a completely redesigned kitchen with shaker cabinetry and stainless
Elevated 0.7 acre homesite with LAKE VIEWS, mountain backdrop, and access to a growing lake community WITHOUT lakefront pricing!! Spend weekends on the water! Welcome to 4120 Lake Meadow Lane in Morristown, a custom-built home thoughtfully designed to be someone's forever home, now available due to an out-of-state relocation. Built in 2023 and rarely lived in, this property showcases quality
Take a look at this duplex located just a few minutes from the middle of downtown Morristown! This duplex sports one newly renovated unit and both units are currently inhabited by tenants with a total monthly income of $1,875. This property and the neighboring duplex, 1562-1564 Shields Ferry Road, are being sold separately. Please contact Listing Agent when requesting to show this property.
Move-in ready Cape Cod-style home located on a desirable corner lot in West Morristown. This well-maintained property features 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms with an inviting open-concept living area perfect for everyday living and entertaining. The main-level primary suite offers convenience and privacy, while hardwood flooring throughout the main living space adds warmth and timeless appeal. The
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 to 617 W Sunset Hills -- a charming and versatile home designed for comfort and everyday living. This 4-bedroom, 2-bath property offers a thoughtful layout, including a convenient main-level bedroom and full bathroom, making it ideal for multi-generational living or guests. The family room is warm and inviting, featuring a cozy fireplace and an abundance of natural light that creates an
3 bedroom, 2 full bath double-wide offering approximately 1,440 square feet of living space in a convenient Morristown location. There are two separate parcels, which provides added flexibility and potential for future use, with the additional parcel offering possible building opportunity (buyer to verify).Enjoy the benefit of no city taxes while still being just minutes from Highway 160 for
Build your luxury dream home on this beautiful 0.73 acre lot in the highly desirable Windswept community overlooking Cherokee Lake. This scenic subdivision offers stunning mountain and lake surroundings, upscale homes, and a peaceful setting while still being convenient to Morristown, Rogersville, and Knoxville and Gatlinburg. Windswept features community amenities, boat slips, manor house,
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
Luxury Lake Community Living-3005 Bridgewater Blvd, Bridgewater Pointe!Experience refined living in the prestigious Bridgewater Pointe lakefront community. This elegant 3-bedroom, 2-bath residence blends timeless craftsmanship with upscale comfort, offering a lifestyle defined by quality, convenience, and serene surroundings. Sophisticated main-level living, step inside to a beautifully
Well maintained all brick home has 3 bedrooms move in ready. Main level with 2.5 bathrooms one with whirlpool tub, shower, sink, the half bath is off the kitchen.The master bedroom has an ensuite bath.Large living room, dining room, laundry room has a newer washer in 2024and dryer in 2022 lots of shelfing as well.Off the kitchen and dining room is a large deck with plenty of room
Excellent starter home or investment property with many new updates within the last year and a half. Upgrades include new split unit for heating and air, new water heater, LVP flooring, interior/exterior paint, stain, cabinets, LED lighting, drywall ceiling, back deck, new gravel driveway, mailbox, wood front porch railing, shutters, kitchen appliances and washer/dryer hookup installed and within
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
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
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-
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: 2387101Welcome 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: 2387097Welcome 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: 1717136Welcome 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
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