National Medal of Honor Heritage Center

HistoryThe Tennessee Overhill began as a pilot cultural tourism program. Upon completion of the pilot period, it became a permanent organization with a mission to promote and preserve the natural and cultural resources of McMinn, Monroe, and Polk counties through cultural tourism. The counties are located in Southeast Tennessee. The entire southern half of the Cherokee National Forest is found in the Tennessee Overhill along with the Ocoee, Hiwassee, Tellico, and Conasauga rivers. The Tennessee Overhill also owns the Old Line Railroad, home of the Hiwassee River Rail Adventure. In addition to an annual tourism marketing campaign, the Tennessee Overhill also works to preserve and interpret the history and culture of the region. Presently, the organization is researching the route the Trail of Tears took through the area, continuing to develop and promote the Unicoi Turnpike Trail, and seeking funding to develop an artists survey and online directory of artists.Specialtiescultural tourism, preservation, arts, history

Lost Sea is America s largest underground lake listed by the Guinness Book of World Records. Located in Sweetwater, Tenn., the lake is part of an historic cave system called Craighead Caverns. The lake s tour includes a glass bottom boat ride and is recognized by the U.S. Department of the Interior as a Registered National Landmark. It includes a general store, ice cream parlor, trading post and glassblower. The lake also hosts a wild tour adventure for organizations, such as schools, camps, churches and scouts. The Lost Sea is a member of the National Cave Association and the Southern Highlands Attractions of the United States.