Documentation of The Old Federal Road in East Tennessee

Journey back in time along one of East Tennessee's most vital yet forgotten pathways. "Documentation of The Old Federal Road in East Tennessee" is the culmination of years of dedicated research by James P. Swayne and his grandfather, Allen P. Swayne. This compelling work rescues from obscurity the historic mail route established by the 1805 Tellico Treaty, a crucial artery that connected Knoxville to Georgia through the heart of the Cherokee Nation.

More than just a map, this book is a rich tapestry of history. Follow the authors as they trace the road's precise path using court records, old surveys, and firsthand exploration. Discover lost towns like Columbus, Tennessee, uncover the stories of key figures like John Hildebrand and Nancy Ward, and learn about the forgotten workers who maintained the route.

From the Tellico Blockhouse to the Georgia line, this documentation vividly brings to life the era when the Cherokee Nation and the United States government collaborated on a joint venture that shaped the region's settlement and development. An essential read for historians, genealogists, and anyone captivated by the hidden stories of the American landscape.