Visiting the Smoky Mountains is a relaxing time for friends, families and groups to explore the history and beauty of the mountains. One special place in the Smokies has earned national recognition for its historic structure. The Rocky Spring Presbyterian Church in the Smoky Mountains has been added to the National Register of Historic Places:
1. Why was Rocky Springs Added?
Rocky Springs Presbyterian Church
is nearly 140 years old, and sits on Boyds Creek Highway. The gorgeous white wooden walls pair well with the green roof. Although the congregation consists of 17-20 committed individuals, this church in the Smoky Mountains has been serving the Sevier County community for over 100 years. The National Register of Historic Places doesn’t choose a church based on its worship value. Instead, the register looks at the historic value of the structure itself and determines whether the structure is worthy of preservation. Structures have to qualify in a specific category to meet the standards of the register. The register looks specifically at what attributes each structure has that makes it unique from other similar structures and determines whether or not it meets the criteria.
In the case of Rocky Springs Presbyterian Church, it was accepted to the National Register for its unique architecture. At the time of construction, in 1891, most churches would have been built with the Gothic Revival style. What makes this church different is that it was built with the Queen Anne style and Gothic Revival styles in mind. Additionally, this church incorporates the higher group of three windows, which was very rare for the time in which the church was built.
2. What is the National Register of Historic Places?
The National Register of Historic Places is run by the National Park Service and is the official list of America’s historic places the service deems worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the Register is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect the nation’s historic and archeological resources. The register also offers guidance on evaluating, documenting, and listing different types of historic places through a series of publications. Thanks to the National Register, a lot of Appalachian history can now be preserved for generations to come!
3. Where to Stay When You Visit
When you stay at one of our cabins, you have access to visiting this beautiful and historic church in the Smoky Mountains for yourself. Along with a great location, other amenities from our cabins include beautiful views, hot tubs, an arcade and movie room, wood and gas burning fireplaces, and indoor and outdoor pools. After a long day of exploring historic sights in the Smokies, come back and relax in your cabin and breath in that mountain air.
Plan your trip to see this historic church in the Smoky Mountains and take in the years of Appalachian culture within the church. Check out our current cabin deals and save money on lodging so you can do more of the things you love in the Smokies.
