Celebrating a Century: Dixie Highway's Impact on Tennessee's Roads and Travel

Dixie Highway Turns 100: A Century of Connecting Tennessee

As we look forward to the upcoming 100th anniversary of the U.S. Highway System in 2026, the Tennessee River Valley Stewardship Council is taking a moment to celebrate the storied past of its roadways. The evolution from early wagon paths to today's scenic byways is a testament to the progress made in the field of transportation and connectivity.

The Dixie Highway, recognized as America's first interstate tourist route, has been pivotal in transforming how we travel. A newly launched feature titled "From Wagon Roads to Highways: Tennessee's 100 Years on the Open Road" delves into the evolution of Tennessee's roadways. Initial routes like the Avery Trace, established in 1786, laid the groundwork for future developments. This journey through history celebrates the vision behind the Dixie Highway and the integral role roadways play in linking communities and enhancing tourism.

The early 1900s saw the rise of the Good Roads Movement, significantly influencing road development in Tennessee. Spearheaded by advocates like Carl G. Fisher, this initiative urged states to prioritize better roads. It led to the creation of the Tennessee General Assembly's State Highway Department in 1915, marking the inception of Highway 1, the first cross-Tennessee route predating federal oversight.

Julie Graham, Executive Director of the Tennessee River Valley Stewardship Council, eloquently stated, "Tennessee's highways have always been more than just paths; they're threads in the fabric of our nation, weaving together communities and cultures." This sentiment encapsulates the essence of what the Dixie Highway and subsequent roadways have contributed to the state.

With the establishment of the U.S. Highway System in 1926, Tennessee's highways became integral to a national network, linking local communities to a broader system. The creation of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) four decades later standardized these programs across the country.

Today, Tennessee's legacy is vividly present in its National Scenic Byways, which include the East Tennessee Crossing Byway, Cherohala Skyway, and Sequatchie Valley Scenic Byway. These routes, part of the federal program initiated by the FHWA in 1991, offer travelers a chance to experience the state's rich history firsthand.

As the centennial of the U.S. highway system approaches, Tennessee stands as a bridge between its historical roots and modern-day travel. Its roads not only signify a journey through geography but also through time, depicting advancement and connection.

For those eager to explore this historical tapestry, planning a road trip through the Tennessee River Valley and the 9 Lakes region is highly encouraged. These routes, once known as the Main Street of the South, provide a tangible way to reconnect with the past while enjoying the present journey.

The Tennessee River Valley Stewardship Council, a nonprofit comprised of volunteers across a seven-state region, operates the Geotourism MapGuide website with the generous support of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Their commitment to preserving and promoting Tennessee’s rich travel history demonstrates a dedication to both heritage and community.

In conclusion, the legacy of the Dixie Highway and other historical routes continue to shape Tennessee's identity, providing not just access to destinations but enriching experiences filled with stories of progress. As we approach the 100-year mark, it is an opportune moment to reflect, celebrate, and embark on our journeys along these historic byways that have been welcoming travelers through a century of change.