Old Deery Inn 

Old Deery Inn and Museum in Blountville is a wonderful place under the care of the Sullivan County Department of Archives and Tourism. The property is situated on Highway 126, just off SR-394. It is a gem that many people may miss as they drive by. The original building was a log cabin built between 1780 and 1790. The Inn survived fires set during the Battle of Blountville during the Civil War.

The Inn is being lovingly restored by the Sullivan County Historic Preservation Association but is still open for tours. The grounds are chock full of fascinating buildings and the museum is wonderful.

A point of interest is the Smithsonian Gates on east side of the Inn. These wrought-iron gates were at the Smithsonian Institute from 1879 until 1910. Also fascinating are the guests who stayed at the Inn, including Andrew Jackson, James K. Polk, Andrew Johnson, Louis Phillipe Orleans, the King of France, and the Marquis de LaFayette. The inside doors have been autographed by three Tennessee governors, including Frank Clement, Buford Ellington, and Lamar Alexander, and the front door by President Jimmy Carter.

This site became an official Northeast Tennessee Master Gardener Association project in June 2024. We will be maintaining and enhancing existing gardens and creating new areas to reflect the history of the site. Anyone interested in helping can contact Project Leader: Kate O’Lenic

Email: ebkateo@gmail.com.