Publisher's Synopsis
Beersheba Springs, Tennessee has a population of about 500 but holds a special place in the hearts of thousands. There are families that have been here since the first days of settlement in the 1830s and '40s; and, even though their descendants have spread across the nation, Beersheba retains a hold on their hearts. Around a core of antebellum summer cottages, another group of families has found rest and refreshment here for generations and brought scores and scores of guests. And new families and new homes have gradually been added. The Hotel - United Methodist Assembly stands at the center of the community and attracts many people to the mountain who have often formed a deep attachment to it. In recent years, Beersheba has become an entrance to the Savage Gulf State Natural Area. We like to think of Beersheba as an especially friendly place. This book is a sort of "welcome center," an invitation to visitors to participate in our lives, to experience our nature, to sing our songs, to look at our pictures, and to enjoy our stories and poetry. It recounts the storiies of some fifty homes and the families connected with them. If you are an old Beersheba expert but need a little reminder of who's who at the various cottages, here is your guide. Do you want to know where the springs are? Here is your map. Whether you are spending a day or a lifetime in Beersheba Springs, we hope you will find pleasure, information, and life in these pages. The general history of Beersheba, starting with its geological evolution and what is known of American indian culture in the area, on through the discovery of the springs and development of the resort in the 19th century is recounted in Volume I of this history. That volume also covers in detail the story of the Hotel and the United Methodist Assembly, as well as stores and shops. Volume II concentrates on families and homes. Volume III reprints some classic articles and stories on Beersheba.
