Very few attractions receive as much tantalizing news coverage as Glenmore Mansion in Jefferson County, Tennessee. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973, the Glenmore Mansion draws thousands of visitors a year for tours and to enjoy the natural beauty and interesting history of the unique home and its surrounding gardens and property. Glenmore Mansion is indeed a Victorian treasure of East Tennessee, and a must-visit attraction for history lovers coming through Jefferson County, appreciators of unique architecture, and even visitors hoping to meet a ghost.
Lovers of History
Touring Glenmore Mansion is truly like taking a step back to another era in time. Steeped in Southern tradition, the Glenmore Mansion has been owned by only two families and remains one of the oldest buildings in the entire county. Created by pre-emancipation, slave labor, the bricks of the building are alive with history.
Architecture Appreciators
Glenmore is an amazing architectural achievement for the time and the era in which it was constructed in 1868. Glenmore’s massive three story, 27 room, expansive structure is one of the best-known examples of the mid-Victorian style commonly referred to as Tennessee’s Second Empire Architectural style.
Ghost Hunters
And for the would-be ghost hunter, various visitors after dark have mentioned a calming presence among the shadows of the vast estate. There are some that believe the presence of local historian Thomas Roach persists after he mentioned that he would revisit the mansion after death. People have also reported seeing a woman in white standing in the windows, and strange lights in the attic after the museum has closed.
Glenmore Event – Spring Garden Market
Fancy a spot of tea? Then mark your calendars for the first Saturday in May, when Glenmore hosts the Spring Garden Market highlighted by plant and craft vendors. The Glenmore “Tea Tent” also provides a light lunch with a Victorian touch. The Mansion is open for tours from 9 AM until 2 PM during the Garden Market.
Glenmore Event – Celebrating 150 Years
On Saturday, June 9, 2018, Glenmore Mansion will be celebrating 150 years with a daylong celebration and open house event. The morning events will commemorate Glenmore’s 150 year. There will be programs highlighting the history of the mansion and will include a former resident as well as Branner and Jarnagin descendants. The afternoon festivities include several simultaneous events such as self-guided tours, storytelling circle in Glenmore Parlor, live music, and historical exhibits. All program, parking, and afternoon events will be free of charge. It is suggested visitors bring camp or folding chairs for personal seating.
Glenmore Event – Christmas at Glenmore
The Christmas season is a must visit time at the Glenmore Mansion. The house is open to visitors the first two weekends in December for Christmas Tours. Each room in the mansion is decorated with a Christmas Tree and ornaments from the Victorian Period. Fireplace mantles and the grand staircase are decorated with seasonal decorations and visitors will enjoy cookies and hot Wassel as a part of the tour.
Plan Your Visit – Glenmore in Jefferson County
Located at 1280 N Chucky Pike, Jefferson City, TN 37760, Glenmore Mansion hosts tours on weekends from the first Saturday in May through the end of October. Tours are given by docents who are familiar with the history of the house and the two families who called the place “home.” Tours last approximately one hour and are given at 1 PM, 2 PM, 3 PM and 4 PM on each Saturday and Sunday afternoon. The cost of the tour is $5.00 / adult and $2.00 for children under 12.
Glenmore Mansion can help provide you a venue for a variety of private parties and special events such as showers, weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthdays, or anniversary celebrations. You’ll have the unique chance to celebrate your special event in the downstairs library, dining hall, parlor room, or spacious lawn with a large tent. Contact 865-680-4416 for fee schedules and/or reservations.
To learn more about the rich history of Jefferson County, please visit our website www.vacationjeffersoncounty.com
