History buffs and community members alike can look forward to stepping back in time at the Frozen Head State Park this June. The park will hold a Grand Opening for the historic Stonecipher Kelly House, which promises a day full of living history and local culture. According to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation announcement, the celebration starts at 10 AM. It runs until 4 PM on Saturday, June 7, with free admission.
The Stonecipher Kelly House, built between 1814 and 1815, is not only the oldest standing home in Morgan County but also serves as a testament to the region's early settlements; it was acquired by the state in 2014 and has been restored with the help of several partners. Frozen Head State Park Manager Jacob Ingram expressed his enthusiasm stating, "This is a treasured historical landmark, and we’re excited to open it to the public," Ingram said, "The house is in its original location, so we’re very proud to be a part of its story. We welcome everyone to join us for this special event," according to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation.
The unveiled Stonecipher Kelly House has a rich lineage tied to the local community and the early white settlers of the northern Cumberland Plateau, with the inaugural event poised to offer glimpses into the past through tours, demonstrations, and traditional music. Celebrations of the house’s origins and its historical significance will include an array of attractions like the Smoky Mountain Model A Club, antique tractors, and demonstrations in weaving and cast iron cooking, as per the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation.
