In 1949, workers at the Maymead quarry (just south of Mountain City) discovered a cave with several early Mississippian-era (ca.

The Needham and Arthur expedition of 1673 is believed to have passed through the area, making use of the gap at Trade to the south.

[6] The first permanent white settlers arrived in the Mountain City area in the late 18th century, among them Leonard Shoun and Revolutionary War veteran Alexander Doran.

[7] The name of the town was changed to "Mountain City" in 1885, presumably at the urging of Roderick R. Butler, a prominent citizen and U.S.

Congressman who wanted the town's name to reflect its situation amidst one of the highest valleys in Tennessee.

[9][10] The gathering contributed significantly to the development of country music and is commemorated every summer at the Old Time Fiddler's Convention in nearby Laurel Bloomery.

U.S. Route 421 (Shady Street) connects Mountain City with Bristol, Tennessee, to the northwest and Boone, North Carolina, to the southeast.

State Route 167 follows the Roan Creek Valley on the south side of Doe Mountain, rejoining S.R.

Mountain City has a subtropical highland (Köppen Cfb) with monthly averages ranging from 34 °F (1 °C) to 71 °F (22 °C) in January and July, respectively.

The center offers tourism information about the county and the museum showcases the history of the area and has a large collection of Native American and pioneer objects.

Long Journey Home is Johnson County's Heritage Arts and music celebration held every Labor Day weekend.