18 Apr 🌲 The Story of White Pine, Tennessee: From Dandridge Crossing to a Scenic Byway Town
Nestled in the rolling hills of Jefferson County, Tennessee, the town of White Pine is more than just a quiet, close-knit community — it’s a place with deep roots and a rich story. From its early days as Dandridge Crossing to its transformation into a railroad hub and scenic byway stop, White Pine holds a unique place in East Tennessee’s historical landscape.
Long before it was called White Pine, this area was inhabited by the Cherokee Indians who used the nearby French Broad River as a transportation route and spiritual ground. By the late 1700s, European settlers had begun arriving, drawn to the region’s fertile land and natural waterways. At the time, the area was known as Dandridge Crossing, a reference to its proximity to the historic town of Dandridge and its role as a crossroads for travelers and trade routes.
Everything changed in the years following the Civil War, when the expansion of the railroad reached the region. Dandridge Crossing became an ideal site for a depot, located where the new tracks crossed a well-traveled stagecoach route. The railroad brought new energy to the area: businesses popped up, families moved in, and goods could now travel farther, faster. In 1872, the town officially adopted the name White Pine, inspired by the tall, straight pine trees that lined the roads — a fitting symbol for a growing town standing tall on the Tennessee frontier.
While the Civil War devastated many communities, White Pine (or what would become it) was largely spared. Its dispersed population and lack of a formal town center meant it wasn’t a strategic target. However, nearby plantations along the French Broad River weren’t so lucky — some were raided by soldiers seeking food and horses. Still, White Pine’s quiet resilience in the aftermath of the war set the stage for its postwar growth and renewal.
Though it may not be the birthplace of famous national figures, White Pine and the surrounding region have played host to influential stories and people. Eliza McCardle Johnson, the wife of President Andrew Johnson, hailed from nearby Telford. And the cultural traditions of the Appalachian region — from storytelling to craftsmanship — are deeply embedded in the town’s identity.
Today, White Pine’s past is preserved in local museums, Civil War markers, and historic sites nearby. The General Longstreet Museum in Russellville, just a short drive away, offers insights into Civil War strategy and the life of General James Longstreet. And the historic town of Dandridge provides a look into 18th-century life, with preserved architecture and scenic river views.
Adding to White Pine’s historical significance is its location along the East Tennessee Crossing National Scenic Byway, a federally recognized route that stretches 83 miles through the Appalachian region. The byway follows ancient Native American paths and stagecoach trails, winding through the Smokies and connecting towns like White Pine that have stood the test of time. Travelers along this scenic route can stop in White Pine for a taste of true Tennessee heritage, complete with quiet streets, welcoming locals, and stories worth hearing.
White Pine may be a small town, but its story echoes across centuries. From its early roots as Dandridge Crossing to its growth during the railroad era and its modern place on one of the nation’s most beautiful scenic byways, White Pine continues to be a place where history is alive, and the spirit of East Tennessee endures.