Political, Economic, Social, and Religious Data
The early industrial development and growth of Jefferson County were very favorable. The discovery of natural resources and the fertile farmland along the Holston and French Broad rivers and their tributaries attracted the early settlers to the various locations which later developed into towns.
Mills, carding machines, retail stores, blacksmith shops, and other industries made their appearances as soon as the demand justified their existence. There were many normal conditions, however, which tended to hinder development. In addition to the usual problems confronting the inhabitants of a new state were a group which may be classified under three heads: the relations and adjustments with the national government; the establishment of trade relations, and the solution of the Indian question. Much suffering and bloodshed had resulted from the bitter struggle carried on between the red and white races. In spite of these retarding influences, however, the natural increase of population continued.22
According to the census report of 1840, the total population of Jefferson County was 12,076; by 1850 the number had increased to 13,204 and by 1860 to 16,043, the slave population being about 13 per cent and the number of free colored never as many as two hundred. The census report of 1850 presented some interesting facts. There were only seventeen foreigners, and 2,040 families, which indicated a rather large percentage of children. A comparatively small number were reported in school, 396 in private and 3,000 in public schools of the county. The annual income for educational purposes was about $1.25 per pupil, the private institutions having the advantage in finances.23
In 1850 only about 3 per cent of the population lived in villages. Dandridge, with 378 inhabitants, was the largest town. There were 904 farms in the county. The assessed valuation with improvements and equipment was $1,384,594. Indicative of the business and financial trends was the fact that two banks, each having capital stock of $50,000, were doing business in Dandridge prior to the beginning of the War Between the States.24
Rural life had undergone much change by 1900, farms were reduced in size, and slave labor, of course, did not exist. Farmers had begun to take more interest in truck patches and fruit. Since 1900 inventions, modern equipment, improved transportation, manufacturing, mining, better church buildings, and schools have tended to enhance both economic and social life. Nevertheless, many problems have remained.25
The Republican party is predominate in politics. Nominations in the Republican primary election are tantamount to election. Unlike many other counties, the political ideologies and differences are friendly. There are no pronounced factions and no issues are made of political or religious affiliations in the educational or business life of the county. School employees are appointed without reference to political parties or church membership. The people have respect for and pride in their Board of Education and County Court. The members are men of integrity, intelligence, and, in most cases, are heavy taxpayers.26
Jefferson County may be regarded as a representative unit of East Tennessee. The population of the county, according to the 1960 census, was 21,493 as compared to the census of 1850 of 13,204. It consists of an Anglo-Saxon element with its usual traits of conservatism. The theory of " personal rights" is often emphasized, at least by example, and so is the standard of morality, with keen appreciation of honesty and justice. The moral and religious conduct of the people, as a rule, is to be commended. Strict regard for the Sabbath may be noted by any observer merely passing through the county.27
Fraternities, societies, clubs, and social organizations among both men and women are very common. Every village has its organizations or chapters, and the work carried on is by no means of a trivial nature.
Although there exists some poverty and some unemployment, as in other counties, this seems to be on a general decline. Individuals often appear to tax themselves to find something to do or sell in order to have a little spending money. Taxes are high, but property is m
