The Norfolk-Southern Railroad came to Rogersville just after the Civil War in 1870 and the depot where the museum is housed was built in 1890. Initially, the depot was a small platform with a covering for passengers to huddle under while waiting for their train. The depot was deeded to Hawkins County, the county leased it to Rogersville Heritage Association in 1987, and renovations began in the summer of 1998.
Rogersville played a huge part in Tennessee’s and the nation’s newspaper industry for many years and the 1st newspaper was printed here, so it seems appropriate that the state’s newspaper and printing museum be located here as well.
George Roulstone and his partner, Robert Ferguson, published the first issue of the Knoxville Gazette on November 5, 1791. Roulstone remained in Rogersville until October 1792. A replica of Roulstone’s 1791 newspaper, printed on his press, is on display along with the contents of three other print shops from our area, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Even if you have never worked in the printing industry, this is a museum that deserves to be visited!
Located at 415 South Depot Street, Rogersville, TN 37857, the museum is open Monday-Friday from 9AM until 4PM and by appointment. Admission is free, though donations are gratefully accepted. Please call (423)272-1961 beforehand, if possible, to ensure that someone will be in the office when you arrive.