Trade, Tennessee
Trade | ||
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ZIP code 37691 | ||
Area code | 423 | |
GNIS feature ID | 1272826[1] |
Trade is an
History
The oldest unincorporated community in the state of Tennessee,[2] Trade originated in the 18th century as "The Trade Gap," a trading post established for Native Americans, pioneers, and fur traders to buy and sell their wares. It was located on an old buffalo trail between Snake and Rich Mountains, the easiest route through the mountains to the West. The first English-speakers visited what is now Trade as early as 1673, when the Needham and Arthur expedition passed through the area.
Tom Dula (made famous by the folk song "Tom Dooley") hid out in Trade as he was on the run, suspected of having murdered Laura Foster in Wilkes County, North Carolina. It was in Trade that the posse finally caught up to Dula and arrested him. Dula was working on Grayson farm. He stated, "if it hadn't been for Grayson I'd have been in Tennessee", when he was captured in Trade.
Geography
Trade lies in the upper Roan Creek Valley between Snake Mountain to the east, Stone Mountain to the northwest, and Fork Ridge to the southwest. The border between Tennessee and North Carolina passes immediately to the south and atop Snake Mountain to the east. The community of Zionville lies opposite the border to the south.
Culture
The Trade Days festival,
In 2008, the Trade gristmill celebrated its grand opening. Most of the parts comprising the newly constructed mill date back to pre-Civil War. The gristmill is located on the grounds of Trade Days and the Trade Community Center and is open to the public. A variety of products are available for purchase, including popcorn grits and featured art by local talent.
See also
- Snake Mountain
References
- ^ "Trade, Tennessee". Geographic Names Information System. United States Geological Survey, United States Department of the Interior. Retrieved September 10, 2011.
- ^ ISBN 978-0-7627-5057-3. Retrieved November 22, 2011.