East TN History Fair
The Center for the Study of Tennesseans and War was pleased to participate in the 2026 East Tennessee History Fair on August 15 at the East Tennessee History Center in downtown Knoxville.
Hosted by the East Tennessee Historical Society in partnership with the Knox County Public Library, the free community celebration brought together regional historical and cultural organizations, living-history interpreters, musicians, craftspeople, and members of the public. This year’s fair commemorated the nation’s Semiquincentennial through the themes of Celebrate, Commemorate, Contemplate, and Commit.
Center staff staffed an information booth throughout the day, meeting with local veterans and community members and sharing information about the Center’s oral history program. The program works to create a people’s history of America’s wars by recording and preserving the stories of those who served. Veterans’ experiences—including those of service members whose roles were outside combat—are vital resources for future historians, students, families, and communities.
Center Director Dr. Chris Magra also presented a lecture, “John Sevier: The Interesting Life of Tennessee’s First Governor,” as part of the fair’s auditorium program. His presentation explored Sevier’s life and his connection to the Battle of Kings Mountain, one of the pivotal engagements of the American Revolution in the southern backcountry.
The Center appreciates the opportunity to connect with veterans, neighbors, and fellow historical organizations at the fair. We are grateful to the East Tennessee Historical Society, the Knox County Public Library, and everyone who helped make the event a meaningful celebration of East Tennessee history.
Veterans interested in sharing their stories can learn more about the Center’s Oral History Project at https://cstw.utk.edu/oral-history-project/.