“The Old City’s history is a story of intersections. Near the spot where Jackson and Central cross, Knoxville’s rail-based economy boomed. Saloons and “resorts” (aka brothels) flourished while reformers fought poverty and plague. Immigrants built lasting legacies. Black businesses thrived. Music of all sorts – folk, jazz, country, rock’n’roll – has always played an important roll.”

Jack Neely, the award winning Knoxville journalist and KHP historian, takes readers on a tour through time of this area we know today as the Old City, from the arrival of the iron horse to the arrival of nationally known bands for Rhythm N’ Blooms. The arc of the Old City’s history, composed of so many individual and communal stories, provides a unique glimpse into the personal lives, economics, architecture, and social mores over the last two centuries – and stirs up excitement for the Old City’s next chapter, the one that is not written yet.

Knoxville’s Old City: A Short History is available through KHP’s online store.

If you’re familiar with Jack’s books on Knoxville’s history, you are in for a treat. And don’t be fooled by its title – this is a thick hardback book with over 300 pages and richly illustrated with many vintage and previously unpublished photographs. The book was designed by the award-winning team at Robin Easter Design.

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<< OLD CITY GALLERY>>

Patrick Sullivan’s Saloon on the corner of Central Street and East Jackson Avenue (Library of Congress)