Mabry Hazen House, Knoxville, TN - Museum

The Mabry Hazen House in Knoxville, TN, offers some valuable history about the Civil War. It is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The beautiful home contains many original artifacts from the period that will appeal to most people.

The home sits on top of five acres on a place called Mabry Hill. A cemetery is also located there called Bethel Cemetery and contains mostly Confederate soldiers.

The house itself was built in 1858 - just three years before the start of the Civil War. This two-floor, wood frame house is primarily Italianate in design, but also has some Grecian influence. The home was occupied only by three generations of the same family - from 1865 to 1987.

The owner of the house was a strong supporter of the Confederate cause, and he was one of the wealthier men in the Knoxville area at the time. By himself, he had outfitted an entire company of Confederate soldiers, at a cost of about $100,000. In the first half of the Civil War, the Mabry-Hazen house served as the headquarters for the Confederates in the area. In the second half of the War, the Union soldiers used it as their headquarters.

Today, the home still has the original furniture and furnishings. Visitors can take a tour through the home and see the fine china, the silverware, crystal, and more. It is one of the largest collections of original artifacts in America.

Throughout the year, there are several special activities that take place on the grounds. On special days, celebrations or tours are given, such as the Historic Homes Tour, the TN Statehood Day, the Summer Solstice Picnic, and more. There is a Victorian Tea given annually at the home every spring, and a tour of the home goes with it.

Another large event is called Boomsday. This is a time of big celebration. On that day, there will be live bluegrass music, barbeque, and more. A premiere fireworks display will also be given. The Mabry Hazen home will be open after 6 PM for tours, and dinner is served at 7:30 PM. The event will be limited to 300 people to avoid overcrowding and to keep it a quality event.

Another great event takes place around Christmas. The house is decorated in plenty of Christmas decorations and lights. Light refreshments will be served.

Bethel Cemetery is the name of the Cemetery that takes up four acres of the property. More than 1,600 Confederate soldiers were buried here during the War, and 300 of them were killed during the battle that took place at Fort Sanders. Later, 50 Union soldiers were buried there, and an additional 20 veterans from the Civil War. The Cemetery was donated to the Hazen Historical Museum Foundation in 1989.

The Mabry Hazen House in Knoxville, TN, also offers annual tickets that enable holders to participate in the various events at a discounted rate. They can also take free tours through the house all year long. The property may also be rented for weddings and special events. It is only open for tours on Wednesday through Saturday, but is closed on all holidays. Groups are also welcome.