Heritage Initiatives

This page does not present a program, but rather the multi-layerd efforts of the RC&D to promote the region's long and unique history and heritage. Below are some of the many projects the RC&D has worked on and partnered with other groups to produce.

Our biggest current initiative is Not Barn Yesterday 2: A Clothesline of Quilts in Appalachia. You can learn more about this program by visiting its own webpage.

The RC&D recently purchased the former home of Dr. L.C. Bryan in Rutledge Tennessee. We are in the process of renovating the home, which is now the RC&D's main office. You can find out more about the Historic Bryan House at this website dedicated to it and our opening celebration.

Arts & Heritage Center and Friendship Park The old Nance home in Rutledge is currently being restored and transformed into an Arts and Heritage Center in downtown Rutledge, just across the street from the Courthouse. This structure has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places because of the unique and distinct architecture of the building. The original "L" shaped brick structure was constructed circa 1830 and was a prominent mercantile for most of that century with rooms upstairs that were likely used as boarding rooms and living space. The structure and property were purchased from the Nance estate in the mid-1990's by the Town of Rutledge to save this special property from being destroyed. A committee was formed to oversee the restoration and transformation of the Historic property into the Arts and Heritage Center and Friendship Park. The effort being led by a Board of Directors will house a public museum/exhibit space, a large multi-purpose room, an art classroom/studio, a hand crafts studio, a genealogy study, a small meeting room, a catering kitchen and a welcome center.

A new sign adorns the front of the Nance House

The grounds of the Center have become Friendship Park, a lovely place to stroll, chat, hold family gatherings, as well as enjoy local festivals and seasonal events. If you would like to know more, or would like to be involved, please call contact us.

Heritage Tourism

This initiative was begun in 1995 as the Specialty Recreation and Tourism program for the purpose of exploring opportunities for economic development in the area through heritage and nature-based tourism. With the completion of The Tennessee Wilderness Road Guide in 1996 and the Three Rivers Recreation Guide in 1997, this program area has broadened its focus to include a multimedia and technology dimension intended both to promote tourism development and to introduce computer technologies into rural development strategies. The CD is also an excellent classroom education tool. A classroom use guide can be downloaded from this website.

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“All programs and assistance of the RC&D Council are available without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact the USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD).”