Asheville - 1800-1850
A road parallel to the French Broad River made a path into east Tennessee in 1828. This passage opened the gateway from the west, bringing settlers driving herds of hogs, sheep and cattle from Kentucky and Tennessee.
The Cherokee had cherished the healing waters of what is now Hot Springs, which this trail and later the railroads would bring the world to visit; in 1837 James Patton established what became a fashionable resort there.
The "Asheville and Greenville Plank Road," completed in 1851, expanded commerce. At this point, more affluent community members recognized Asheville as a health resort. This designation attracted the wealthy from all over the South, arriving on four- and six-horse stages.
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