Birthplace of American Democracy

Elizabethton (Sycamore Shoals) played a significant role in 18th century history as the setting for some of the most dramatic events to occur in the expansion of America's western boundary.

Here was established the FIRST PERMANENT SETTLEMENT OUTSIDE THE ORIGINAL 13 COLONIES, AND THE WATAUGA ASSOCIATION - THE FIRST MAJORITY RULE SYSTEM OF AMERICAN DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT - WAS FORMED IN 1772.  In 1796, Tennessee attained statehood , Carter County was named for Landon Carter, and the county seat, Elizabethton, for his wife Elizabeth Maclin Carter. A stroll through Elizabethton's downtown historic district and a visit to Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area reveal the rich heritage of our 200 year old town.  Sites of interest include the Doe River Covered Bridge ( built in 1882 and is the oldest such bridge in the state, still in use), the Carter Mansion (oldest frame house in the state of Tennessee), Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area (site of Fort Watauga, area of the first permanent settlement outside the original 13 colonies), Roan Mountain State Resort Park (home of the largest natural rhododendron gardens, over 600 acres, in the world) the Soldiers Monument, historic district, Watauga Lake and Watauga & Doe  Rivers (Watauga River, site of one of only two trophy trout sections in the state ), and numerous historical homes.
 
The Doe River Covered Bridge is one of four in Tennessee identified by a Tennessee Historical Commission Marker and is also included in the National Registry of Historic sites. Built in 1882 it stretches one hundred and thirty-four feet across the Doe River.  The most photographed landmark in Carter County.
 
The Carter Mansion , built between 1775 and 1781, was considered elegant compared to existing log cabins with dirt floors in the immediate and surrounding areas.  The oldest frame house in Tennessee, the mansion is decorated throughout with hand carved panels, crown molding and chair railings.  Over 90% of the materials in the interior are original.
 
The Soldier's Monument, located in the Courthouse Square, was constructed in 1912 and dedicated in 1913 to all soldiers from the Revolution War to that time.  It was refurbished in 1989 and then was rededicated to Carter County Soldiers serving in all wars
 
Carter County offers fun, enjoyment and relaxation to our visitors.  The area abounds in outdoors activities, white water rafting, hiking the Appalachian Trail, fishing (lake, rivers, and the trophy trout section), camping both tent and RV, picnicking by the lake or in the mountains, boating (rentals are available) or just a leisure and relaxing day touring and taking in the scenery in the beautiful highland regions of the county.  Antique shops abound in the historic downtown and there are many unique restaurants for your dining pleasure.