newsgathers

Nestled on the Cumberland Plateau, Monteagle, Tennessee, offers a compelling blend of Appalachian natural splendor and significant historical depth. This picturesque mountain community, often regarded as the gateway to the Southern plateau, beckons visitors with its rugged landscapes, including impressive cave systems and scenic routes. Beyond its visual allure, Monteagle holds a special place in American history, having played a crucial role in the Civil Rights Movement and preserving remnants of its centuries-old past. The town also boasts a surprising array of culinary experiences, catering to various tastes, all within a welcoming, heritage-rich environment.

Monteagle’s geographical position on the Cumberland Plateau, at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, makes it a natural starting point for exploring the region's wilderness. The South Cumberland State Park Visitor Center is located here, serving as an excellent base for adventurers. Nearby attractions include Lost Cove, home to one of Tennessee's most expansive cave openings, a remarkable feat given the state's more than 10,000 documented caves. Furthermore, the local stretch of I-24 is notable for its challenging winding roads and breathtaking vistas, necessitating special driving regulations for larger vehicles and featuring emergency runaway ramps for safety.

Beyond its natural beauty, Monteagle’s historical narrative is particularly compelling. With a population of just over 1,800 residents, this town was a quiet but powerful force during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. The Highlander Folk School, now known as the Highlander Research and Educational Center, served as a pivotal social justice hub. This institution hosted and influenced iconic figures such as Rosa Parks, John Lewis, and Martin Luther King Jr., shaping their activism and contributing significantly to the movement’s progress. Interestingly, the town's history also has a more notorious connection: Al Capone, the infamous gangster, reportedly frequented and operated from a 1920s mansion that has since been transformed into one of Monteagle’s celebrated dining establishments.

The town's long and rich heritage dates back to its settlement in 1792. In 1858, it witnessed the passage of one of the final groups of Cherokees during the tragic Trail of Tears. Officially established in 1870, Monteagle has meticulously preserved elements of its past. Notable historical sites include the Dubose Conference Center, which occupies the former building of Fairmount College, an all-girls school founded in 1878. Just a short 10-minute drive away lies the University of Sewanee, also known as the University of the South. Established in 1857 before the Civil War, its stunning mountain campus is renowned for its distinctive stone architecture and its pioneering efforts in land management and conservation during the late 19th century, predating mainstream environmental awareness.

Tennessee is recognized for its vital Civil Rights landmarks, and Monteagle rightfully belongs on this list. While the Highlander Research and Educational Center has relocated to New Market, its original buildings in Monteagle remain standing. Founded in 1932 to support the labor movement and address Southern societal needs, the Highlander Folk School shifted its focus to civil rights issues in the 1950s. Before its Monteagle location closed in 1961 due to its civil rights activities, it hosted integrated social justice workshops. Rosa Parks attended these workshops, which profoundly influenced her activism before her historic refusal to give up her bus seat. Perhaps most famously, Martin Luther King Jr. visited the Highlander Folk School in 1957 to deliver his impactful \"A Look to the Future\" address, a timeless speech emphasizing the importance of being \"maladjusted\" to systemic oppression.

Monteagle's unique history extends to its vibrant dining scene. High Point, a restaurant housed in a 1929 mansion, retains original features like light fixtures and hardwood floors. Beyond its gourmet steak and seafood dishes and scenic views, it's famous for its connection to Al Capone. Rumors suggest Capone funded the mansion, which features underground tunnels and escape hatches, allegedly used for liquor transport during the Prohibition era. For a more casual experience, the Mountain Goat Market, recognized by Yelp in 2019 as a top U.S. eatery, offers excellent sandwiches and desserts amidst playfully designed interiors featuring its goat mascot. Given Monteagle's car-only accessibility and proximity to major Tennessee cities like Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Nashville, it serves as an ideal stop on a scenic road trip through the state's enchanting mountain landscapes. Travelers should note the time zone change when arriving from Eastern Time cities and be aware of I-24’s unique runaway ramps for trucks, which allow them access to the leftmost lane.