Old Timer's Day 2009

Many elderly residents from Gatlinburg TN are gathering together on June 6 to reminiscence on the days when Gatlinburg was still a “sleepy town”. They will tell you stories of how Gatlinburg came to be a tourist town and when the National Park was dedicated. Nobody can tell a story like someone who actually lived it!

“Old Timer’s Day” celebrates those who have been in Gatlinburg long enough to see it evolve into what it is today. The Pi Beta Phi School started this event to bring everyone together to share stories and sing or make crafts together. These people grew up on the land where there are now amusements and watched as Gatlinburg grew and tourists started visiting. Their stories will take you back 75 years when Gatlinburg was a farming town and not many people had even heard of it. They watched as childhood friends moved away and buildings moved in. Many can recount when the National Park was dedicated.

The elderly people will meet at the Inn at Gatlinburg. Stop in for a visit and listen to the stories they have. They’ll answer many of your questions and tell you things you wouldn’t be able to hear from many people that live in the area now. The stories are very interesting! Some even have pictures to show you. Their memories are great and will their stories will leave you wanting more. Visit Gatlinburg to hear the stories of how it grew into the tourist town it is today.