[4] Europeans learned from the Indians about the presence of placer gold in the area, and in 1827 Jacob Peck and Le Grande Henderson began mining illegally.

Robert Tunnell started a post office near Coker Creek in 1831 and Philip Meroney operated a stock stand (service station) at the present location.

[4] The Coker Creek field produced about 9,000 troy ounces (280 kg), nearly all of Tennessee's historical gold output, despite using no more than light machinery.

[5] The Civil War brought strife to Coker Creek as locals resisted the Confederate government and deserters and bushwhackers hid out in the mountains.

Companies from Thomas' Legion of remnant Cherokee and pro-Confederate highlanders were stationed in Coker Creek to enforce Confederate authority.