Even if you’ve lived here your whole life, you probably don’t know everything there is to know about Knoxville’s history and connections.
You probably know about the 1982 World’s Fair, which produced both an iconic addition to the Knoxville’s skyline − the Sunsphere − and its most beloved (or derided) nickname: the Scruffy City. And you might have heard that Knoxville is known as the Cradle of Country Music for its role nurturing the early careers of Roy Acuff, Chet Atkins, Flatt & Scruggs and Dolly Parton. Or if you are of a literary bent, you know Knoxville’s history with James Agee and Cormac McCarthy.
But what about Knoxville’s connections to some of the country’s most well-known brands?
Knox News delved into the history of Knox County to track down national companies and products that got their start right here in the Marble City. Spoiler alert: One of these is outside Knox County but counts as close enough to qualify.
Mountain Dew
OK, we’re starting off with the one everyone probably already knows about. Mountain Dew − now one of the country’s most popular soft drinks − got its start when two Knoxville brothers needed a tasty mixer for their bourbon.