I recently discovered a new historic site in Northeast Tennessee: Exchange Place, in Kingsport. Located on the site of a former stagecoach relay station (hence the name, which derives from the exchanging of horses that would take place) and plantation, Exchange Place is a living history farm depicting life in the area in the 1850s. A few weekends ago, I went up to Exchange Place with my family for a garden fair. As I was less interested in the garden fair and more interested in the historic buildings on site, I spent a pleasant afternoon wandering around. Some of the buildings had more information provided about them than others. On a normal day – rather than a special event – I probably would have been able to learn more about the history and function of each building from the volunteers on site. Since I was mostly on my own while exploring, enjoy this largely visual exploration of Exchange Place, accompanied by what information I was able to gather.
The main house, described as a “saddlebag” style house by the historical marker on site, presumably because there is a main room on either side of the center (marked by the darker brown logs).The kitchen (undergoing preservation work) and outdoor bread oven.A cabin similar to that occupied by the enslaved cook at the plantation. The original cabin was beyond repair by the late 20th century, so this (very similar) cabin was brought in from nearby Greene County. I learned here that the family living at Exchange Place in the 1850s had 8-10 enslaved people, a relatively large number for Northeast Tennessee. The information provided did not explain what crop(s) were grown at this plantation.A view of some of the structures on the property. The entire site was larger than I expected. It also included a barn and two other structures on the opposite site of the (modern) highway.A break from history for cute animals! As part of the garden fair, sheep were being shorn the traditional way – by hand. This sheep has just been freed from its winter coat.
I’m a historian and teacher who loves sharing my passion for history here on my blog. I also like to write about travel, especially when it’s connected to history, and books. Join me for on my journey to make the past present and accessible for all!
Making the Past Present 
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