In the early 1800s, a man named Radford Gatlin established a tavern and general store in the area, which eventually grew into a small community. The town was officially named Gatlinburg in 1856, in honour of Radford Gatlin.
In 1912, Pi Beta Phi Fraternity established a settlement school in Gatlinburg, which provided education and other services to the rural community in the Great Smoky Mountains region. The school was later renamed the Pi Beta Phi Elementary School and continues to operate today as the Gatlinburg-Pittman High School. The fraternity has continued to support education and literacy initiatives in the region, including the establishment of the Pi Beta Phi Centennial of Literacy Service Plaza in Gatlinburg.
Elizabeth "Bettie" Williams Mitchell was an important figure in the history of Pi Beta Phi Fraternity, one of the oldest women's fraternities in the United States. She was a member of Pi Beta Phi and served as the organization's first national president from 1867 to 1870. During her tenure, she helped to establish the fraternity's first national convention and to expand the organization's presence across the country.
The statue of Elizabeth Bettie Williams Mitchell is a bronze sculpture that depicts her holding a book in her lap. It was created by artist Benjamin Victor and unveiled in a dedication ceremony in August 2014. The statue serves as a symbol of Pi Beta Phi's commitment to education and literacy, as well as a tribute to the leadership and contributions of Elizabeth Bettie Williams Mitchell to the fraternity.
Gatlinburg is a small mountain resort town located in the state of Tennessee in the United States. It is situated in Sevier County, near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which attracts millions of visitors each year.
Gatlinburg is known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and attractions like the Ober Gatlinburg ski resort, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, and the Gatlinburg Space Needle. The town also offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, including live music, theatres, and art galleries.
Visitors can enjoy hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, fishing in the streams and rivers, and skiing and snowboarding in the winter months. Gatlinburg is also a popular destination for weddings, with its scenic mountain views and picturesque venues.
Overall, Gatlinburg offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and entertainment that attracts visitors from around the world.