Saturday, January 09, 2010

One toot on this whistle



This morning I went to Time Warp Tea Room on Central for Knox Heritage's Preservation Network. It happens every second Saturday of the month there. Anyone can go to gather amidst the motorcycle paraphernalia and old home junkies to talk shop. I had never been before so I decided to rough the cold and my tendency to stay in on a Saturday morning to attend. My friend and co-worker Hollie Cook led the discussion today. The subject: How to research your historic home.

This morning, to be honest, I was expecting to be one of maybe five there, considering the weather. I was surprised, however, to see over 20 people gathered around the large round table in the middle of Time Warp.

Whenever someone is interested in researching a historic building in Knoxville, you first must say, "Have you visited the McClung Collection in the East Tennessee History Center yet?" (Do it. You'll sound smart) Besides the fact that it's your best bet on finding the information you're looking for, it's also incredibly beautiful inside. I was floored the first time I saw it, probably because I was expecting something more like the main library around the corner. (No offense, main library) It's the best, sifting through old articles and photos from Knoxville past in the confines of such a gorgeous place.

Sidenote: Be sure you dress sharp, though. I've seen Jack Neely there before.



Knox Heritage Preservation Network
Every 2nd Saturday of the Month
Time Warp Tea Room
1209 North Central Street
(865) 524-1155‎

East Tennessee History Center
601 S. Gay Street
(865) 215-8801

Addendum: In an effort not to be too obscure, I realize the title needs a little explaining. It has nothing to do with the subject but only refers to the fact that the name "Time Warp" always makes me think of this. I apologize for any sleep you may have lost over this.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

Oooh, I wish I had known about this. I have a historic home to research.

HEATHER said...

I love the McClung collection. It's one of my favorite places in Knoxville. It's also fun researching your genealogy there- and it doesn't matter what part of the county you're from, they have resources from all over the states.