JOHNSON CITY HISTORY TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Local Ranger Recounts the Overmountain March at Rocky Mount
A 1.5-hour, free public talk in Johnson City where Interpretive Ranger Thomas Batchelor tells the story of the Overmountain Men’s march through Rocky Mount as part of the America 250 Speaker Series.
A Local Ranger Recounts the Overmountain March at Rocky Mount.
On the grounds of Rocky Mount — a federal territorial capital that predates the United States — historian and reenactor Thomas Batchelor brings the 1780 Overmountain Men’s march to life, recounting the frontier response that helped shape the fight for independence.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Local knowledge and lived landscape
Batchelor is an Interpretive Ranger, an ETSU history graduate, and an Overmountain Men reenactor who grew up in the region and walks the trail—bringing an uncommon local authority to the story.
Hear the march where it actually passed
This talk takes place at Rocky Mount, a rare site where visitors can stand on ground tied to the frontier march that moved through the area in 1780—an apt setting for the America 250 commemoration.
America 250: a focused commemoration
Presented as part of the America 250 Speaker Series, the program pairs a regional expert with a historic site directly tied to the Overmountain Men’s route in celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
What the day feels like
What to expect
Expect an authoritative, narrative-driven 1.5-hour presentation led by Thomas Batchelor that traces the daring march of the Overmountain Men through Rocky Mount and situates those local events within the wider 1780 campaign—presented free to the public as part of the America 250 series.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this program suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The program is scheduled as a 1.5-hour talk; consult the operator for exact start time and any schedule changes.
Meet at Rocky Mount State Historic Site: 200 Hyder Hill Road, Piney Flats, TN 37686. See the site website or call for directions.
Admission to this talk is free; contact Rocky Mount State Historic Site for reservation or attendance details.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Who is giving the talk?
Thomas Batchelor, an Interpretive Ranger, ETSU history graduate, and Overmountain Men reenactor, is the speaker.
When is the presentation?
The program is scheduled for Thursday, May 28 at 6:00 PM.
How long does the event last?
The presentation runs approximately 1.5 hours.
Where do attendees meet?
Meet at Rocky Mount State Historic Site, 200 Hyder Hill Road, Piney Flats, TN 37686.
Is there an admission fee?
Admission to this talk is free.
How can I get more information or confirm details?
Visit rockymountmuseum.com or call Rocky Mount State Historic Site at 423-538-7396 for up-to-date information.