Opinion

The Russell Hotel was built in the early 1900s by Mayor David Samuel Russell on the corner of Locust and what today is Main Street, where the mayor operated a general store on the main level and a hotel on the second floor. In this photo, the mayor is standing on top of the building as it was nearing completion. 

The Russell Hotel was built in the early 1900s by Mayor David Samuel Russell on the corner of Locust and what today is Main Street, where the mayor operated a general store on the main level and a hotel on the second floor. In this photo, the mayor is standing on top of the building as it was nearing completion. 

Andrews Journaling: About Valleytown’s first established business

News Staff
Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Body See Part 1 here
British Maj. Patrick Ferguson sent word to the Scots-Irish Appalachians he would march his army over the mountains, hang their leaders and lay waste the country with fire and sword. The Overmountain men’s response was voiced by the Sycamore Shoals prayer of the Rev. Samuel Doak. “Crown this mighty effort with victory and smite those who exalt themselves against liberty, justice and truth. Help us as good soldiers to wield the sword of the Lord and Gideon.” Ferguson did not survive the battle.

British Maj. Patrick Ferguson sent word to the Scots-Irish Appalachians he would march his army over the mountains, hang their leaders and lay waste the country with fire and sword. The Overmountain men’s response was voiced by the Sycamore Shoals prayer of the Rev. Samuel Doak. “Crown this mighty effort with victory and smite those who exalt themselves against liberty, justice and truth. Help us as good soldiers to wield the sword of the Lord and Gideon.” Ferguson did not survive the battle.

Roads Less Traveled: Independent, combative Scots-Irish Appalachians

Bruce Voyles
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
Body Look at the county map and read the names. Graham. Clay. Macon. Jackson. Madison. McDowell. Sevier County over in Tennessee. Shelby, North Carolina.