Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site, Johnson City

About Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site

Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site preserves 45 acres of Northeast Tennessee history through eleven historic buildings, a limestone cave, natural spring, and the Penny McLaughlin Education and Museum Center. Visitors begin at the center to view the "O Beautiful Land of the Mountains" permanent exhibit and a seventeen-minute introductory video, then choose between guided or self-guided tours. Guided tours last approximately 45 minutes and lead through the historic home, Landon Carter Haynes law office, and George Haynes slave cabin. Self-guided visitors explore the grounds using outdoor panel maps and text descriptions at each structure. The site's ancient limestone cave offers exploration with flashlights available at the center. The property chronicles four families: Colonel John Tipton, who settled here in 1784; his son John Tipton Jr.; Landon Carter Haynes, a Confederate senator; and the Simerly brothers, who eventually transferred the property to the state. Located in Johnson City, the site is open Tuesday through Saturday with published hours and admission prices.