Gatlinburg Life Draft

Commemorative Issue

A magazine for the people of Gatlinburg and those who come to visit.

the documentary

Smoky Mountain Strong

the documentary

Mich ele Canney marketing director for anakeesta

M

ichele Canney, Marketing Director f or Anakeesta, never expected the day the Gatlinburg fires began to end in a flight on foot down a steep hill behind her three-bedroom house. Despite a thick layer of smoke at her office in Gatlinburg that morning, she, like many others that day, never anticipated the flames would expand to Gatlinburg and certainly not that they would reach her own home.

At first, Michele and her family opted to stay within the comforting walls of their own home—keep the doors closed, towels under the doors, block out the smoke. Stay inside and stay safe. But as the night progressed, they began to suspect something was very wrong. High winds made their house feel like it was literally rocking. Through communications with friends who lived near them, television and social media, they discovered the fires were spreading quickly. Finally, the fire department warned that a fire had bro-

ken out right down the street from them, and they knew it was time to leave.

Michele and her family—her husband, son, and two dogs—piled into their car with the intent to leave but were soon blocked by a tree that was on fire in the middle of the road. So they turned around, came back to the house. According to Michele, her first thought was a bleak one: “So this is where I’m gonna die.”

Behind their house was a very steep hill, and with no road to travel down, it seemed to be the only option. Her son said, We are going down the hill. The family raced down the hill even as the fire was zooming up the

mountainside. They hitched a ride with a neighbor whose name they didn’t know but were once again blocked by a downed tree. Down Loop Road they continued on foot, down to Baskins Creek as trees fell and power lines snapped to the ground around them. They eventually made it to the Parkway where friends were waiting for them, but the journey was long and harrowing.

Despite the horror and devastation of that evening, however, Michele is able to look back with gratitude knowing that she and her family made it out safe and sound.

From this tragedy also came a sense of closeness to the community for Michele.

“I feel such an outpouring of compassion and warmth and kindness from the people of Gatlinburg. I just feel so privileged and honored to be a part of that.”

Anakeesta Joins the Gatlinburg Family One of Gatlinburg’s newest attractions, Anakeesta is a truly magical experience for guests of all ages. The adventure begins as you soar to the top of Anakeesta mountain from Downtown Gatlinburg on a 14-minute ride in either a quad chair or 6-person gondola cabin. Once at the top, you can experience Anakeesta’s whimsical treehouse village, which features local crafts, retail opportunities and dining. You can take a stroll through their canopy walk, which has 16 hanging bridges more than 40 to 60 feet in the air. If you are looking for a little more of a thrill, enjoy a race through the trees on their dual-racing zip lines, or speed through the forest on their new single rail mountain coaster. Younger guests will enjoy the Treehouse Village playground. The most priceless experience of all, however, are the stunning views of Mt. LeConte and Downtown Gatlinburg.

Anakeesta is sure to become a favorite of visitors from all over the world, a place to create magical memories that will last for years to come.

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TreeHouse Concept

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Th e Castle

at graystone heights

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t an estimated cost of over $12,000,000, the 32,000 square foot 6-story Smoky Mountain Castle was built in the 1960’s as a private residence for a mysterious Southern businessman and his wife. The castle was strategically placed high above Gatlinburg so it would have the absolute best views in the Smokies. This iconic mansion has also been the subject of mystery and intrigue since the

moment its construction first began and has been the centerpiece of numerous books, articles and television segments – mostly relating to its (formerly) secretive nature.

For the past few years the castle served as a place where politicians, business leaders, celebrities, authors, artists and musicians

regularly gather to chill out, laugh, have a great time.

Anyone there that night?

The 2.2 acres are currently for sale for $650,000.

the documentary

Ryan DeSear general manager ripley’s aquarium

A lifelong citizen of Gatlinburg, Ryan Desear, General Manager of Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, had never seen anything quite like the terrible fires that ripped through his hometown in November of 2016.

Ripley’s closed their doors to the public at 6:30pm on November 28th. As Ryan headed home, the wind was just starting to pick up, but when a huge gust of wind knocked the power out, the devastation on the mountainside was suddenly apparent. Suddenly they could see that the whole mountain behind their house, only eight miles from the aquarium itself, was on fire.

At around 7:30, Ryan went back to the aquarium to check on the building and said it was like he’d imagine a volcano would look. “I’ve never seen a volcano in action, but there’s a fire on the mountain, and then you just see a big fireball blitz off and explode a mile from the actual fire. It was just fireballs

going everywhere.” Greystone Lodge behind the aquarium ignited and burned, and soon after, the folks at the aquarium were urged to evacuate as the fire made its way down the hill.

It took Ryan and his family until 11:30 that night to reach a hotel in Pigeon Forge, but he did not sleep. He spent the night watching the weather cam at the aquarium, which had spun around to face the building rather than outwards toward the city. He spent the night making sure that his business, the livelihood for himself and so many others in the Gatlinburg area, did not go up in flames.

Fortunately, the aquarium survived the fires, and according to Ryan, he never felt better as a human being than he did in the days that followed. While it was an incredibly trying time, it was impossible not to feel good about people. Gatlinburg experienced no looting—nothing but a deluge of love.

There were so many toys and clothing items donated that Ryan claims they could have clothed the entire county three times over.

The sense of pride in his hometown and his people has truly been overwhelming.

And not only did the people provide for those in need—Ripley’s itself was integral in helping its own affected employees get back on their feet again. Thirty-three of their staff members lost their homes either during or following the fire. Ripley’s told Ryan to do whatever needed to be done, and after just 11 days, they had all 33 people placed in housing with their first and last month’s rent paid, utilities taken care of and everything paid for. According to Ryan, “I’ve never been more proud to work for Ripley’s than I was during that time.”

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Th e Historic Gatlin burg Inn The Historic Gatlinburg Inn has long been a second home for folks from all walks of life and enjoys a rich and storied past.

Frequent guests have included Liberace and Lady Bird Johnson, and it has inspired both filmmakers and songwriters. Back in the 1930s, Rel Maples, Sr. built the Inn on a family patch of land that had been used for growing corn. Over the years, the Inn was host to a variety of local staples, such as the chamber of commerce, the local newspaper, the town’s first bank, first dentist and even the offices of the City of Gatlinburg.

Following World War II, the popularity of the Smokies increased significantly, and the Inn became a favorite place to visit for many famous leaders in business, government and the entertainment world. At its heart, however, the Inn was and still remains a family-friendly establishment with touches of its original history throughout.

Conveniently located off the Parkway, the Historic Gatlinburg Inn is a must-stay location for those visiting the Gatlinburg area.

“Rocky Top” Celebrates 50 Years One simply cannot live in (or, during football season, visit) Tennessee and not be familiar with the state’s most famous song.

“Rocky Top” was penned in 1967 by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant at none other than the Historic Gatlinburg Inn (Room 388, to be precise). Since then, the song has been recorded by dozens of artists in a variety of musical genres and is now one of Tennessee’s ten official state songs. Thousands of voices still join together at Neyland Stadium to belt out the famous words, proclaiming Tennessee “home sweet home.” Happy 50th birthday, “Rocky Top”!

Salt and Pepper Museum An attraction unique to Gatlinburg, the only Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum in America is a truly one-of-a-kind experience for visitors from far and wide. The story began about 25 years ago when owners, Rolf and Andrea, were searching for a pepper mill. Necessity soon become a hobby until the 1990s, when their son gave Andrea a digital camera for Christmas. She began taking pictures of the various salt and pepper shakers she and her husband had collected over the years and carefully cataloguing each one. Before she knew it, she and her husband had moved from Central Texas to the Smoky Mountains to open the only museum of its kind in the world! They currently have over 20,000 shakers at their location in Winery Square and are open for visitors from 10am to 2pm, Monday through Saturday, and on Sunday from 12pm to 4pm. Admission is only $3 and is good toward the purchase of any salt and pepper shaker set.

Park Vista

the documentary

Mayor Warner marketing director for anakeesta

The smoke was heavy in Gatlinburg on the day of November the 28th, so Gatlinburg’s mayor, Mike Werner, suggested to his family that they go to Knoxville and do some Christmas shopping. Like many who escaped the fires, they left that day and didn’t take a thing with them but the clothes on their backs. And like far too many on that fateful evening, the Mayor lost both his home and his business to the fires.

No one expected the fires to spread so quickly or to come so close to the heart of Gatlinburg. No one anticipated the devastation that would sweep through an area so cherished and loved by people the world over. But despite suddenly finding themselves homeless with only the clothes on their backs, Mayor Werner and the city

manager, Cindy Ogle, made a pact, a pact that helped them to keep their emotions under control and gave them focus—they would not worry about themselves but do everything they could to take care of everybody else.

The attitudes of Mike Werner and Cindy Ogle are so indicative of the courageous and giving spirit throughout the Gatlinburg area. Because of that spirit, because of its hardworking and dedicated people, Gatlinburg has managed to bounce back stronger than ever.

Mayor Werner says it is so important people know that Gatlinburg is intact.

All the things people love about Gatlin-

burg, the places where they made cherished memories, the natural beauty of the national park—it’s all still there. Even as the community strives to rebuild and reclaim what was lost, the city and the surrounding area continue to thrive and welcome visitors. According to Werner, “That’s the message we have to get out, to come and enjoy this area. Come and experience the Gatlinburg that you love.”

the documentary

Kate

marketing director for anakeesta

the documentary

N eed a Nam e marketing director for anakeesta

Historic Arts and Crafts Community 80th Annivesary Gatlinburg’s beloved Arts & Crafts Community, an 8-mile loop featuring a variety of skilled craftsmen and artisans, is celebrating its 80th anniversary this year.

Shops in the area are open year-round and feature original pieces of pottery, baskets, jewelry, artwork, photography and so much more. There are over 100 artists and craftsmen eager to display their wares, with many offering in-person demonstrations. The community began around 1937 when local craftsmen began opening their homes and workshops to visitors after years of working the streets of downtown Gatlinburg. That welcoming attitude and friendly spirit continues even now, 80 years later. The Arts & Crafts Community is an experience perfect for families and art lovers alike.

the documentary

Wh o In Charge marketing director for anakeesta

the documentary

Randy Watson general manager gatlinburg sky lift

The Gatlinburg Sky Lift has been a favorite attraction on the Parkway since it was built back in 1954. On the day of the fires, sales stopped around 12:30pm due to the heavy smoke blanketing the once pristine mountain views. Hours later, the fire came across Crockett Mountain, consuming the shop at the top of the lift and destroying the terminal.

According to Randy Watson, general manager of the Sky Lift, once the smoke

had cleared and they were able to assess the damage, they immediately went to the drawing board to figure out what to do. They brought in the world’s largest lift manufacturer, Doppelmayr, to help with constructing a new lift. In the midst of great loss, they were able to find a blessing in that 12 of the Sky Lift’s own staff, three of whom had lost everything, were able to pitch in and help the Doppelmayr workers with the rebuilding process.

On May 26, 2017, the Gatlinburg Sky Lift Reopened to the Public.

According to Watson, they still “have the beautiful view that God put out there for us to enjoy.” As with so many other area businesses, Randy and the Sky Lift staff proved they were “Gatlinburg Strong” by dusting off the ashes and returning to business stronger than ever.

Blue Jacket?, Mayor Mike Weirner, City Manager, Cindy Camron Ogle

The rocking chair by definition is an ordinary chair set atop rockers to provide relaxation while it moves back and forth. One could only imagine the countless hours of relaxation provided by rocking chairs, however no one would imagine the role a single rocking chair would have following the Gatlinburg Wildfires of 2016.

At the end of World War II, the newly incorporated town of Gatlinburg was starting to buzz again. The McLean Family often journeyed from Knoxville to take in the magnificence of the mountains and the people making this promising place unique. In 1945 with a dream to open a hotel, the McLean family purchased 180 mountainside acres. The family granted 80 of those acres to the National Park providing a roadway which is today the Gatlinburg Bypass. There were many developments to those purchased acres with the most infamous 26.6 acres gaining life in 2005 with a creekside pavilion, five buildings and numerous rocking chairs.

With generations of love for these Mountains it was an exciting time for Buddy McLean, his brother James and longtime friend & designer, Jeanie Johnson as they embarked on sharing these mountains with the world. The quest to merge past with present took them to the research the ElkmontCommunity of the Great Smoky Mountains and the great camps of the Adirondack Mountains in New York.

Just like the back and forth of a rocking chair, those great camps mixed a back in time enjoyment of getting away in the outdoors with the forward time enjoyment of luxurious bedding, fine dining and social prominence.

The labor of love that began in 2003 was realized as the Adirondack style met Southern Charm in 2005 at the opening of The Lodge at Buckberry Creek.

The first year, The Lodge at Buckberry Creek welcomed guests to 44 well appointed, luxury suites inviting them to embrace the natural surroundings. Guests enjoyed walking to the Creekside pavilion along the hiking trail, relaxing in a rocking chair while gazing at the breathtaking view of Mt. LeConte and ending the day with exquisitely prepared fine dining. Attention to detail was given each suite, extensive training to every staff member, from the moment a guest pulled onto the property it was purposed to meet their every need.

Their mission accomplished and recognized as the year closed with the prestigious AAA 4-Diamond being awarded to these good stewards of mountain legacy. Buddy

reflected on this moment stating it was”an Overwhelming Acceptance of Our Vision”.

The Lodge at Buckberry Creek was the first in Gatlinburg to receive this award and have achieved it annually since 2005.

A McLean Family Picnic along the banks of Buckberry Creek, 1930. Victor H. McLean Sr. (second from right) and Victor H. McLean Jr. (indirectly in front - second from right), grandfather and father of Buddy and James McLean. Its breathtaking scenery and wildlife inspired the McLean family of Knoxville to purchase several hundred acres adjacent to the park’s mountainous land. The intent was to build a family home to serve as a summer retreat, but this special sanctuary has evolved into something much more.

Members of the family have enjoyed the sights, sounds, and allure of the property for over 60 years, but have always desired to share the natural beauty of their mountain paradise with others.

That vision grew to The Lodge at Buckberry Creek becoming the premier resort of Gatlinburg hosting events for the National Park Service and their dignitaries. They welcomed 2nd Century Park Commissioners; Sandra Day O’Connor and Howard Baker during the anniversary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There would be many national, local & state dignitaries as well as numerous celebrities enjoying the Lodge, but the most special to Buddy, Jeanie and James was the opportunity to host Casting for Recovery, a joint effort with 25 volunteers to grant 14 ladies a weekend of Buckberry, Fly Fishing and the Great Smoky Mountains during a difficult time in their life. The Lodge was the first in the state to host this special event and continued the tradition for 10 years. Buddy said,” It was an honor to be a small part”. The ladies enjoyed sitting in the rocking chairs by the fire making s’mores, learning to cast a fly rod on the front lawn and embracing the history of the memorabilia within the main lodge.

Each day at the Lodge at Buckberry Creek was a continuation of the legacy birthed in 1945. Seventy-one years of McLean family heritage, twelve years of welcoming the world to sit in a rocking chair at this mountain paradise would all change in one hour of time. At approx. 8 pm on Monday, November 28, 2016 the fire that started over a week prior in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park reached the Lodge at Buckberry Creek in Gatlinburg. With hurricane force winds reaching 90 miles per hour, the fire storm engulfed the property. The decisive actions of Event Manager Ellie Morgan and Executive Chef Jason Milanich resulted in the safe evacuation of all guests and staff. The priceless family heirlooms, historical memorabilia and buildings were consumed to ashes.

In the days following the wildfire it would become known that one building survived, the lodging building known as “The Woods”. Buddy McLean, Janet

McLean and Jeanie Johnson made the trek to inspect the property. As they walked the remains of the buildings, now just ashes, they glanced at Mt. LeConte noting the famous view had remained. In the distance they could see a single rocking chair with a simple burnt scar on the leg.

The fire burned so hot it consumed all in its path, but this rocking chair remained.

The rocking chair was in a favorite spot for guests to gather, it is easy to imagine that every guest had either sat or stood by that rocking chair. Buddy took a seat and began to rock as the weight of what had occurred was taking a physical toll. In that moment of reflection the rocking chair took him back to where it all started and forward to embracing hope with each rocking motion.

The survival of the rocking chair meant that the past could not be erased, hope was restored and the future was inspired.

As the world around Gatlinburg learned of the devastation at The Lodge at Buckberry Creek, the outpouring of love, support and hope for the future became louder than the media of the wildfire event. Countless emails, messages and hand written letters of support, love and memories were received. Within 48 hours, Casting for Recovery called to pledge a fundraiser for Buckberry staff support. Over 10,000 social media messages made it clear the mission of the McLean Family was accomplished and appreciated, the true mountain gem would have to shine again!

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the documentary

Buddy McLean the lodge at buckberry creek

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Although the rebuild would take time to organize, Buddy, Jeanie and James knew they had one building to offer guests. With much consideration given to respecting the past, present and future the journey to open the surviving building began with the cleaning of debris, painting of the foundations remaining from lost structures and construction of a fence around a new gathering place for the rocking chairs. It was a great task cleaning the accommodations and repairing the landscaping but in June 2017, the first building constructed on the property so many years ago reopened.

Since the opening, guests have been embracing the opportunity with each other and nature found while lodging at The Woods at Buckberry Lodge. “They are back, not full capacity but we had a relaxing week, we will be back” noted a repeat guest on the service, views and accommodations being just as they remembered.

“Rocking chair, rocking babies, rocka –bye, rock of ages side by side will be together always”. In the time since the

wildfire those lyrics give song to the legacy of The Lodge at Buckberry Creek. The rocking chair invites you to take a seat, embrace the surroundings, rock a little and rise with a smile. For years those chairs rocked guests as they made s’mores, talked about adventures of the day, and made new friends. The rocking chair, a symbol that memories could not be erased but would carry on through the ages as generations share the memories of yesterday and the possibilities of tomorrow while they rock together gazing at the magnificent mountains. The opportunity to see the Buckberry Rocking Chair and the amazing view of Mt. Leconte awaits at the The Lodge at Buckberry Creek. The surviving building “The Woods” is open for lodging reservations. Contact 865-430-8030 or inquiries@buckberrylodge.com for details.

While you’re there take a seat in the rocking chair and smile knowing though the ashes of life’s worst burn you will rise, no matter the scar or number of times you are rocked, there will always be the rise.

“OUR GREATEST REWARDS WERE FROM OUR GUESTS AND FRIENDS WHO CAME BACK YEAR AFTER YEAR AND SEASON AFTER SEASON. PEOPLE CAME AS GUESTS BUT USUALLY LEFT AS FRIENDS.” The Owners of The Lodge At Buckberry Creek.