Unicoi County

Unicoi County is an administrative county in northeastern Tennessee located within the Blue Ridge Mountains and defined by mountainous terrain with peaks reaching significant elevations. The region is characterized by forested slopes and rural development, with Erwin serving as the county seat.

The county was established in 1875 from parts of Washington and Carter counties and initially developed as an agricultural region. Railroad construction in the 1880s transformed the economic structure and spurred industrial growth.

The name Unicoi comes from Cherokee language and refers to the white mist that often covers the mountains in this northeastern Tennessee region. This naming reflects a natural feature that visitors can still observe regularly today.

The region is best explored by car, with rural highways serving as the main routes through the mountains. Good walking shoes are recommended since the area offers opportunities for hiking and exploring the terrain.

A railroad company factory in Erwin produced fine ceramic tableware known as Blue Ridge China in the early 1900s. This operation is often overlooked by visitors but represented a significant local industry of its era.

Location: Tennessee

Inception: March 23, 1875

Capital city: Erwin

Shares border with: Washington County, Carter County, Mitchell County, Yancey County, Madison County, Greene County

Website: https://unicoicountytn.com

GPS coordinates: 36.10000,-82.43000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:32