Rocky Mount State Historic Site

Rocky Mount held a significant role in the starting of Tennessee. After a failed attempt at creating a state directly following the War for Independence, known as the State of Franklin, the territory needed protection and leadership. President George Washington appointed William Blount to be governor for the newly developed Southwest Territory, which spanned from the Allegheny mountains to the Mississippi River. Blount moved from North Carolina to William Cobb’s home, Rocky Mount, in 1790. William Blount’s stay at Rocky Mount made it the Capitol and Headquarters of the Southwest Territory until his move to Knoxville in 1792. Today we host visitors from all over and invite them into the Cobb estate to experience the history first hand.

At Rocky Mount State Historic Site, we strive to preserve the history and significance of our site, while also contributing to our community by engaging our visitors and educating the next generation.