[4] Named Jeffersonville until 1892, Tazewell was developed near the headwaters of the Clinch River.

It is in a county that underwent rapid growth in population at the end of the 19th century during the period of the coal and iron boom, as resources of the Pocahontas Coalfields were exploited.

The Big Crab Orchard Site, Bull Thistle Cave Archeological Site, Burke's Garden Rural Historic District, Chimney Rock Farm, Tazewell Historic District, George Oscar Thompson House (now demolished), and James Wynn House are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

[6] According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 4.0 square miles (10.5 km2), all land.

The section of highway is popular with motorcycle enthusiasts and sports car aficionados.

The climate in this area has mild differences between highs and lows, and there is adequate rainfall year-round.