Ramsey House

Located on Thorngrove Pike, just off Governor John Sevier Highway (a few miles from Marble Springs), Historic Ramsey House dates back to 1797 when English architect and joiner Thomas Hope built the two-story house for Francis Alexander Ramsey.  Hope himself arrived in Knoxville in 1795 via Charleston, S.C.

Ramsey was one of the earliest settlers in the Knoxville area. The house is made of Tennessee Marble (from the nearby quarry) and Blue Limestone. The property encompassing more than 100-acres is also known as Swan Pond.

First marked as a historic site by the Daughters of the American Revolution in 1927, it has been maintained as a museum house since 1952, and it is one of the most intact historic homes of its era, including several original furnishings including furniture made by Tennessee’s earliest cabinetmakers.

Ramsey House was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1969.

The Ramsey family made an impact on Knoxville – Francis Ramsey was among the founding Trustees of Blount College, which later became known as the University of Tennessee. One of Francis’ sons, Dr. J.G.M. Ramsey, wrote an important history of the state, The Annals of Tennessee: To the End of the 18th Century. Another son, William B.A. Ramsey, became the first citizen-elected Mayor of Knoxville in 1838 and later served as the Secretary of State for Tennessee (1847-1855).

The grounds serve as the setting for Vintage Baseball Games held here typically from March through August.

Located at: 2614 Thorngrove Pike, Knoxville, TN 37914. Admission Charge.

Visit Ramsey House’s official website to learn more about this fascinating historical treasure.

“Unlock Knoxville’s Past” and explore all the HISTORIC HOMES OF KNOXVILLE! Combo passes are available at all locations.