Cades Cove Preservation Association & Cades Cove Museum, Maryville, TN

The Cades Cove Preservation Association and the Cades Cove Museum, located in Maryville, Tennessee, play an integral role in preserving the rich cultural and historical heritage of Cades Cove, a picturesque valley nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area is known for its breathtaking beauty, historical significance, and as a popular destination for visitors seeking to explore the region’s past. Both the Preservation Association and the Museum work tirelessly to safeguard Cades Cove’s legacy and educate the public about its historical importance.

History and Significance of Cades Cove

Cades Cove is a historic farming community that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was settled by European immigrants who built farms, churches, and schools, contributing to a vibrant, self-sustaining community. Over time, Cades Cove became known for its rich wildlife, including deer, black bears, and wild turkeys, and its connection to early Appalachian life.

In 1934, the area was incorporated into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which led to the relocation of its residents. While many of the homes and structures were abandoned, they remained as vital reminders of the cove’s history. Today, Cades Cove is one of the most visited and well-preserved historic areas within the national park, drawing thousands of tourists each year who are eager to learn about the settlers and their way of life.

The Cades Cove Preservation Association

The Cades Cove Preservation Association (CCPA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the historical, cultural, and natural resources of Cades Cove. The association was founded in the early 2000s by local residents, historians, and park enthusiasts who recognized the need for a focused effort to safeguard the valley’s heritage. Since its inception, the CCPA has been at the forefront of efforts to preserve Cades Cove’s historic structures, landscapes, and artifacts.

One of the core missions of the CCPA is to protect and restore the historic buildings within Cades Cove, including old cabins, churches, and barns. Many of these buildings are in need of restoration due to their age and exposure to the elements, and the CCPA works in partnership with the National Park Service and other local organizations to fund and carry out restoration projects.

In addition to its preservation work, the CCPA also provides educational programming for visitors and residents alike. The association offers tours, workshops, and talks that highlight the history of the cove, the lives of its early settlers, and the importance of preserving this unique cultural resource. The CCPA is also involved in research and documentation efforts, ensuring that future generations have a thorough understanding of Cades Cove’s history and significance.

Cades Cove Museum

The Cades Cove Museum is an essential component of the educational efforts surrounding Cades Cove. Located just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the town of Maryville, the museum serves as a resource for visitors to learn more about the history of the cove and the people who once lived there. The museum is housed in a building that is itself historically significant, featuring exhibits, photographs, and artifacts from the early settlement period.

The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including the lives of the original settlers, their agricultural practices, their relationship with the Cherokee Nation, and the social dynamics of the community. Visitors can explore displays that showcase everyday objects used by settlers, old tools, farming equipment, and even personal items such as clothing and household goods.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum hosts rotating displays and special events that focus on specific aspects of Cades Cove’s history, such as the history of the churches, the importance of the cove’s agriculture, and the lives of famous residents. The museum also provides valuable resources for those interested in genealogy and local history, offering a wealth of information for researchers and family historians.

Community and Visitor Engagement

Both the Cades Cove Preservation Association and the Cades Cove Museum are deeply committed to community involvement and engagement. The CCPA works closely with local schools, community groups, and park visitors to provide educational opportunities that bring the history of Cades Cove to life. Through these efforts, the Preservation Association and the museum have helped foster a sense of pride and connection to the cove’s history among residents and visitors alike.

For those interested in more hands-on learning, the CCPA organizes events such as living history demonstrations, historical reenactments, and restoration workdays. These events offer visitors a chance to experience what life was like in Cades Cove, including the opportunity to see traditional crafts and trades in action, and even participate in the preservation efforts themselves.

Conclusion

The Cades Cove Preservation Association and the Cades Cove Museum serve as key pillars in the ongoing effort to preserve and share the unique history of Cades Cove. Through their work, they ensure that the legacy of the early settlers, their way of life, and the natural beauty of the area are protected for future generations. Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply a visitor looking to learn more about this remarkable part of Tennessee, Cades Cove remains a testament to the enduring spirit of the Appalachian people and the importance of preservation in a rapidly changing world.