Awalt: The History of a Submerged Tennessee Settlement
Nestled in the valley of the Elk River, the settlement of Awalt once served as a quiet hub for early settlers and farmers. While it is no longer visible on a map today, the legacy of this community persists beneath the waters of a modern reservoir. The story of Awalt is one of early American industry and the eventual transformation of the landscape for regional infrastructure.
The Early Days of Awalt
Awalt was likely named after John Awalt, one of the area's early settlers. During the 19th century, the community functioned as a small but self-sufficient center of commerce. A post office was established in 1845 to serve the local population, remaining in operation for over six decades until it was discontinued in 1906.
By the 1870s, the settlement had developed basic industrial capabilities to support its primarily farming population. This included a gristmill (a mill for grinding grain into flour) and a sawmill, both of which were essential for the survival and growth of a rural frontier community.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]The Creation of Tims Ford Lake
The fate of Awalt changed drastically in the mid-20th century with the development of the Tims Ford Dam. Construction on the dam, located on the Elk River, began in 1966 and reached completion in 1970. The project was designed to create Tims Ford Lake, a massive reservoir that would inevitably flood the low-lying areas of the region.
Because Awalt sat in the bottom of a hollow—one of the lowest points of what would become the lake—the settlement was almost completely submerged. The process of clearing the land took nearly two years, during which all structures were removed and the residents were displaced.
Relocation and Displacement
The displacement of the townspeople led to a migration toward neighboring areas, with most residents moving into Franklin County or Coffee County. To preserve the dignity of the deceased, graves from the original settlement were relocated to the New Awalt Cemetery, situated safely on the ridge above the flood line.
Today, the physical remnants of the town are hidden. Some of the roads that once led down into the heart of Awalt now serve as boat access ramps for visitors to the lake. Much of the area where the town once stood is now the site of the Holiday Landing Marina and Resort.
Key Facts
- Naming: Likely named for early settler John Awalt.
- Postal History: Post office operated from 1845 to 1906.
- Industry: Featured a sawmill and a gristmill in the 1870s.
- Dam Construction: Tims Ford Dam was built between 1966 and 1970.
- Current Status: Submerged beneath Tims Ford Lake; site now partially occupied by Holiday Landing Marina and Resort.
| Period/Event | Details |
|---|---|
| 1845 | Establishment of the Awalt post office. |
| 1870s | Operation of local sawmill and gristmill. |
| 1906 | Closure of the local post office. |
| 1966–1970 | Construction of Tims Ford Dam on the Elk River. |
| Post-1970 | Town submerged; residents moved to Franklin and Coffee Counties. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Awalt named after?
The settlement was likely named in honor of John Awalt, who was one of the early settlers in the area.
What happened to the people who lived in Awalt?
The residents were displaced by the filling of Tims Ford Lake, with the majority moving into Coffee County or Franklin County.
Where are the original graves of the townspeople located?
The graves were moved from the valley to the New Awalt Cemetery, which is located on the ridge to avoid submersion.
What exists on the site of Awalt today?
The town is now submerged under Tims Ford Lake, and a significant portion of the former town area is occupied by the Holiday Landing Marina and Resort.
What industries were present in Awalt during the 1870s?
During the 1870s, the community supported a sawmill and a gristmill to serve its population of farmers.