Market

Located in beautiful East Tennessee, the Claiborne County area is one of the most picturesque spots in Appalachia. It is a hub of tourism, industry and higher education, with both a community college and a university located within its borders. There are three incorporated cities within the county: Tazewell, New Tazewell and Harrogate.

Geographic location

Claiborne County is about 48 miles north of Knoxville, Tennessee, and about 145 miles south of Lexington, Kentucky. It covers about 442 square miles.

Population

Total immediate market: approximately 35,000.

Climate

The Southeast is known for its warm, humid summers and Claiborne County certainly has its share. However, the rest of the year is quite seasonal, with the area enjoying complete, fall, winter and spring weather as well. Summer’s average high is in the mid- to upper-80s. Mild winters with occasional cold snaps make the area ideal for many residents. Claiborne County typically receives about 50 inches of rainfall each year and about 10 inches of snow.

Major employers

Education, manufacturing, healthcare.

Education

Claiborne County has many schools — public and private — serving pre-school through high school students. In addition, Claiborne County is home to a campus of Walters State Community College and the main campus of Lincoln Memorial University. LMU has both undergraduate and graduate programs, including the DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine and the College of Veterinary Medicine.

Culture

Claiborne County has many historic sites that attract tourists throughout the year. The White Lightning Trail runs through the county, and the White Lightning Trail Festival is held annually to recognize that heritage. Many homes and buildings are on the National Historic Register, and Civil War battles were fought on the area’s soil. LMU is home to the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum, which houses the third-largest collection of Lincoln memorabilia in the world. LMU and the Town of Cumberland Gap partner to offer Arts in the Gap, a celebration of the fine, applied and visionary arts. There are many concerts, festivals, plays and other events offered – often free of charge – to the population.

Recreation

Sightseeing, hiking, golf, boating, fishing, hunting, kayaking, collegiate sports.

Interesting tidbits

The popular Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is located in the county, as well as Norris Lake, the Powell River and the Clinch River – all of which offer abundant opportunities for outdoor activities.

Area information

Claiborne Economic Partnership & Claiborne County Chamber of Commerce
1732 Main St. #1
Tazewell, TN 37879
423-626-4149
www.claibornepartnership.com