If you love learning about Cades Cove, books are a great way to get a more personal perspective on the topic. There are many great books out there that have been written about the daily life of Cades Cove residents, the history of the many structures in the cove, and the many events that occurred in this unique place. Here is your ultimate recommended reading guide about Cades Cove history:
1. The Cades Cove Story
The Cades Cove Story by author A. Randolph Shields is a great book about Cades Cove history! Shields was a former resident of Cades Cove and highlights the families who lived in the cove. He discusses their everyday home life, life on the farm, recreational activities, and religion! Expect a well-rounded approach to what life was like as a Cades Cove resident. This book is not terribly long at 136 pages and flows well. You’ll love the added touch of historical photographs, newspaper clippings, and diary excerpts!
2. Images of America – Cades Cove Historical Book
Images of America – Cades Cove Historical Book is part of the Images of America book series. This book is authored by Missy Tipton Green and Paulette Ledbetter. Great work went into selecting only the best photos to tell the story of Cades Cove history. Feel like you are really there in the Cove when you flip through the book. If you want to see gorgeous historical photographs of Cades Cove, we recommend you check out this book!
3. Cades Cove – The Life and Death of a Southern Appalachian Community 1818-1937
Cades Cove – The Life and Death of a Southern Appalachian Community 1818-1937 is an excellent book that provides an in-depth background of Cades Cove history. Written by Durwood Dunn, the book dives into stories of the Civil War, barn burners, and moonshiners. This book is on the longer side at 320 pages but is extremely entertaining. The stories truly come to life on the pages!
4. Cades Cove – A Personal Story
Written by a direct descendant of John and Lucretia Oliver, Cades Cove – A Personal Story is an insider’s perspective of growing up in Cades Cove! This book written by Judge Willian Wayne Oliver, tells the story of his life. If you want to hear the details of everyday life in Cades Cove, this is the book for you!
5. Legends of Cades Cove and the Smokies Beyond
Legends of Cades Cove and the Smokies Beyond is written by East Tennessee newspaper reporter Vic Weals. Using his reporter experience, he gathered a collection of interviews with Cades Cove residents. The book touches on topics of the Civil War, farm life, snow storms, and more! There are plenty of historical photographs as well. The book is 192 pages long and is a great read!
Now that you have your ultimate recommended reading guide about Cades Cove history, you can start planning your trip to Cades Cove! Driving around the 11-mile loop is a common activity for visitors! Check out our Cades Cove driving tour booklet and have the full Cades Cove experience when you visit!
