August 14, 2015
Have Fun at This Old Fashioned Heritage Day in September
Pittman Center Heritage Day
Saturday, September 19, 2015
Free Admission
Food and Refreshments Available
Since 1992, town residents have celebrated their mountain heritage, highlighting the region’s food, music, entertainment and crafts of the past. The event is actually hosted in remembrance of a community fall festival that first took place in the early 1920’s. It is a day full of fun that is celebrated with great food, live music, games, crafts vendors, prettiest dog contest, and more!
About Pittman Center Just minutes away from downtown Gatlinburg nestled in the mountains of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the quaint community of Pittman Center. Pittman Center provides a unique blend of history, culture and natural scenic beauty that captures the imagination.
Proud of their mountain heritage, residents work hard to preserve the historic landscape and mountain culture that beckons visitors to come and stay awhile. Time seems to stand still as one ventures forth to rediscover the beauty of the natural surroundings and rich history that defines the Pittman Center experience.
Directions from Gatlinburg From Buckhorn, take Highway 321North and turn left (north) to Scenic Route 416. Turn left and go to mile marker #2. Turn right to 2839 Webb Creek Road.
June 27, 2014
Ice Cream with Everything
In July you can ice cream with everything at Buckhorn Inn. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed July as national ice cream month. Chef Robert Neisler celebrates each year by offering up some decadent ice cream desserts like Strawberry Smoothie Ice Cream Pie, Triple Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwich, Old-Fashioned Mud Pie, Mint Chocolate Grasshopper Pie, Peach Melba Ice Cream Pie and Peanut Butter ‘n Chocolate Treat, Turtle Ice Cream Pie with Caramel, Chocolate and Pecans.
Check out our weekly menus to see when your favorite ice cream dessert will be served. In honor of the celebration, we are sharing a recipe for Strawberry Smoothie Ice Cream Pie (see below). But–it tastes so much better if we make it for you.
Yield: 10-12 servings
Ingredients
1 (7-ounce) package waffle cones, broken into pieces
6 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
2 (1-quart) containers premium vanilla ice cream, divided
1 (16-ounce) container fresh strawberries (1 quart), stemmed
1/4 cup powdered sugar, divided
1 pint fresh blueberries
2 ripe bananas
Garnishes: waffle cone pieces, fresh whole strawberries, fresh blueberries
Preparation Process first 3 ingredients in a food processor until finely crushed. Firmly press mixture onto bottom of a lightly greased 10-inch springform pan. Bake at 350° for 10 minutes. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack. Let vanilla ice cream stand at room temperature 20 minutes or until slightly softened. Process strawberries and 2 tablespoons powdered sugar in a food processor until pureed, stopping to scrape down sides; remove strawberry mixture, and set aside. Process blueberries and 1 tablespoon powdered sugar in food processor until pureed, stopping to scrape down sides; set aside. Mash bananas with a fork in a large bowl; stir in remaining 1 tablespoon powdered sugar. Set aside. Place 1 quart of ice cream in a large bowl; cut into large (3-inch) pieces. Fold strawberry mixture into ice cream until blended. Place in freezer until slightly firm.
Divide remaining quart of ice cream in half, placing halves in separate bowls. Stir blueberry mixture into half and mashed banana mixture into remaining half. Place bowls in freezer. Spread half of strawberry mixture evenly into prepared crust in springform pan. Place pan and remaining strawberry mixture in freezer. Freeze 30 minutes or until strawberry layer in pan is slightly firm. Spread banana mixture evenly over strawberry layer in pan; return pan to freezer, and freeze 30 minutes or until banana layer is slightly firm. Repeat procedure with blueberry mixture. Spread remaining strawberry mixture over blueberry layer in pan, and freeze 3 hours or until all layers are firm. Let pie stand at room temperature 15 minutes before serving. Garnish, if desired.
April 24, 2014
Come to the Spring Garden Celebration
Buckhorn Inn and five other inns are opening their gardens to the public on Wednesday, May 7 as a part of the Gatlinburg Garden Club’s Spring Garden Celebration. You can purchase the $10 tickets for the tour at the Sevier County Bank in Gatlinburg, phoning 865 453 6101, extension 481. Tickets may also be purchased at participating inns on the day of the event. All proceeds benefit the Lucinda Ogle Historic Cabin Restoration Fund.
Other inns participating in the tour are Foxtrot, Quail Ridge, Tudor Inn, Laurel Springs and Blue Mountain Mist.
You can also purchase tickets for a wine and cheese party at Buckhorn Inn on Tuesday, May 6 from 5:30 until 7:00 pm and a Meet the Author Luncheon at Foxtrot Inn on May 6 at 11:30 am.
April 12, 2014
Join a Birding Expedition at Buckhorn
Blue-headed Vireo
Where: Right here at Buckhorn Inn. This is bird heaven. Please see our publication about bird life on this property.
When: Thursdays and Saturdays at either 7:30 (before breakfast) am or 8:30 am (after an early breakfast). Must reserve in advance.
Length of Birding Adventure: 1½ Hours
Cost: $15 per person or $25 for two (minimum of three persons required)
How to Register: Inn Office; 24 hour cancelation required.
Rain: Significant rain will result in cancellation
Expert Birder Keith Watson will lead the adventure
November 22, 2013
Memories of a 1958 Honeymoon
Dr. Tom and Mrs. Mary Kollie reflect on their memories of Buckhorn Inn, beginning in 1958.
Congratulations to Buckhorn Inn on the occasion of its 75th Anniversary! It is most
exciting to be a tiny part of the Inn’s remarkable history, as the following story is shared
with great delight.
It all began on August 23, 1958, when newlyweds of a few hours embarked toward
Gatlinburg for the first night of their honeymoon. Their naiveté in not making reservations
came through when they reached this popular Tennessee resort town to realize that of the
numerous advertised accommodations, there were none available on that hot summer
night. Seeking other options, the young groom in this story took the fork in the road toward
Cosby that turned out to be most serendipitous!
Traveling along the Cosby highway, there shortly appeared a small, shingled sign reading
“Buckhorn Inn,” which pointed to a road to the left. Having nothing to lose and with hope
in the unknown, the 1955 red-and-white Ford made the turn and carried the now
suspenseful newlyweds up the steep, graveled road where they followed the signs to a
charming inn on the mountain side.
Upon arriving at the Buckhorn Inn, a lovely lady approached their car when they pulled into
the parking lot in front of the Inn. She peered into the car and saw the bride with her
corsage still pinned to her going-away outfit. Her heart must have taken hold of her head as
she kindly explained the situation at the Inn to the seeking couple. The Inn could not
accommodate them for dinner, but there was a small cabin on a little path on the hillside
that she would have available for them if they dined elsewhere. Upon being shown Cabin
#1, the couple decided it was the perfect honeymoon cottage; and they could not have found
a better place had they searched the region over! If that were not enough, they were offered
breakfast to be delivered to their cabin the next morning. As promised, neatly uniformed
young ladies came to the door with two trays of delicious breakfast fare and carafes of
coffee to fortify their wedded journey.
Good fortune continued to follow their lives as they made their home in Oak Ridge, TN,
where they have lived for 53 years and where they reared their three children. During this
half-century plus, they have had the pleasure of returning to “Buckhorn” a number of times.
Most recently, they celebrated their 55th Wedding Anniversary in Cabin #1. Innkeeper, Lee
Mellor, who greeted them warmly, appeared to be as excited as they were on their return to
the Inn for this anniversary celebration. The moment was strongly reminiscent of the day
55 years ago when another kind lady, Mrs. June Bebb, did so as well. It was an especially
happy occasion for the couple as they received e-mails from their children telling them they
were sharing in their day with their well wishes; and greetings from family and friends
congratulating them on their milestone.
So joyfully, please join the grateful couple in raising a glass to the Buckhorn Inn as it
continues, with both vision and grace, the tradition of hospitality begun 75 years ago. This
couple feels very enriched to have had the experience of the Inn and to foresee its promising
future toward its century mark!
Top photo shows Cottage 1 in August 1955 when the Kollies first visited and in August 2013.
Dr. Thomas Kollie on his honeymoon at Buckhorn in 1958 and on his 55th wedding anniversary in 2013.
Just married Mary Kollie in 1958 and on her 55th wedding anniversary in Cottage 1.
November 20, 2013
Romantic Getaway
This is our third anniversary celebration at Buckhorn Inn. We absolutely love the Inn and its fabulous view of Mt. Le Conte. It is so relaxing here and the food is wonderful. I’m sure we will be back again for yet another visit.
We always recommend this place to all our friends for a romantic getaway. Kim and Brooks Knott
November 14, 2013
Fantastic Views of the Mountains
My husband and I recently had our first (and definitely not our last) stay at the wonderful Buckhorn Inn. We were celebrating his 59th birthday. The staff could not have been more accommodating and friendly. They were attentive to my husband’s food allergies, and made menu changes especially for him, as well as decorating our table in honor of the occasion! The views from the Inn are breathtaking. Our room was beautiful and spacious, the dinner was absolutely delicious, and so was the breakfast. The Inn is truly a gem hidden in the Smokies. August, 2013 LisaB, Knoxville TN
September 6, 2013
Learning to Dance in the Rain
Thanks so much for your southern hospitality. The tireless efforts of the staff to make our stay so very memorable are beyond commendable. We loved our room and all it offered. It helped us to forget all the business of the world and focus more on God and his directions–knowing He holds us in the palm of His hand. We experienced comfort beyond measure and service exceeding every expectation. This is a place that indeed goes the extra mile.
We feel blessed to have had the opportunity to celebrate our twenty-fifth wedding anniversary and Phil’s 54th birthday at Buckhorn. God’s handiwork reaches beyond the senses, leading one to wonder what to expect next. Viewing Mt Le Conte every morning was such a special gift. The first day we were blessed with an afternoon thunderstorm and reminded of a favorite quote: Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It is about learning to dance in the rain. Thanks again for helping us to make some unforgettable memories. Give our praises to your chef for a superb presentation, preparing the food like an artist. And give all the staff superior marks for giving their all without holding back. Looking forward to returning, The Grosses
September 5, 2013
Never Disappointed
Wow! What a way to celebrate your 67th birthday–at Buckhorn Inn with the one you love. With color on the trees, snow on the mountains, or the beauty of spring and summer, we’ve never been disappointed on any of our visits to Buckhorn Inn. Jerry and Betty Holden
April 30, 2013
Good Conversations in May
Celebrating 75 Years of Hospitality
1938-2013
May Activities
The Past Becomes Present
Local historians, naturalists and storytellers engage guests in lively conversations about the cultural, historical and environmental history of the Great Smoky Mountains and the present and future challenges that face this area. Presentations will be between 5:45 and 6:45 pm on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays in May. Many of the programs will include photos and power point presentations. Opportunities for guest comments and questions abound. You do not have to be a guest of the Inn to attend.
Wednesday, May 1
Frances Hensley, Park Volunteer and Storyteller (aka Granny Franny) will talk with guests about the history, people and customs of the Greenbrier community before the Park became a reality and about some of the flora and fauna that now inhabit this unique area of the Smokies.
Thursday, May 2
Ray Palmer, Park Volunteer Almost everything you see in the Park that is man-made was originally built by members of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression. The CCC is a perfect example of the long lasting effect that a quality, socially responsible government program can have. Find out about the challenges the members of the CCC faced during the 1930sand their way of life and the contributions these hard-working men made to the pleasures we all enjoy today in the Park.
Sunday, May 5 Sarah Weeks, Friends of the Smokies With the help of thousands of people, businesses, and foundations, Friends of the Smokies now funds more than $1 million annually to protect bears, heal trees, improve trails and visitor facilities, and foster a love for Great Smoky Mountains National Park and its tremendous cultural and natural resources. Find out about the history and mission of Friends of the Smokies and the many park programs and projects for which it has provided support in the last 20 years.
Tuesday, May 7 Kim Delozier, Former Park Ranger and Wildlife Biologist Elk, bears, peregrine falcons, river otters, deer, wild pigs—if it inhabits our Park this former manager of wildlife resources for 32 years has a story to tell you about it. Kim, who described his career with the Park as like being a kid in a candy store, maintains his enthusiasm for all creatures great and small—and will be sharing it with you.
Thursday, May 9 Liz Dominque , Naturalist and Hiking Guide Salamanders, anyone? Liz is expert on these gorgeous little creatures. The Great Smoky Mountains are known as the “Salamander Capital of the World!” Salamanders are an especially abundant and diverse group in the Great Smokies. In fact, the great majority of vertebrate (backboned) animals, including human visitors, in the park on any given day are salamanders. Liz is going to tell you how to spot them on your next walk in the park.
Sunday, May 12 Carey Jones, Naturalist and Hiking Guide and Former Park Ranger Just how come did so many different types of animals and plants end up in the Smokies? Carey can tell you. This self-described “old Smokies naturalist” will let you in on why our Park is so special in its abundance and diversity of plants and animals. He promises to answer questions as long as you like.
Tuesday, May 14 Holly Scott, Friends of the Smokies and Billy Jones, Ridgerunner Since 2003, Holly has had the pleasure of helping to promote Friends of the Smokies’ activities and raise awareness of the ongoing need to preserve and protect Great Smoky Mountains National Park. One of the programs supported annually by Friends is the Appalachian Trail Ridgerunner program. From March to October, Ridgerunners patrol the A.T. in the Smokies, helping to ensure that the park’s resources and facilities are being used responsibly, responding to hikers in distress, and performing maintenance along the A.T. and at the park’s backcountry shelters. Billy Jones is in his second year of Ridgerunning in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, an opportunity he sought after hanging up his suit & tie to thru-hike the A.T. in 2006. Holly will be with us to talk about the ways that Friends’ members improve our national park, and Billy will describe a day in the life of a Ridgerunner.
Thursday, May 16 Wanda DeWaard, Naturalist, Tracker, Hiking Guide and Monarch Butterfly Aficionado The Smokies are central to the annual Monarch Butterfly Migration and each year as they pass through Wanda expands her knowledge and expertise about these magnificent creatures—and she is going to share her information and insights with you. Monarchs descend upon the mountains as the law of nature demands. In mass numbers they arrive dedicated and loyal to their own ancestral customs and traditions. Bonded as family, they adhere to their kinsmen calling, displaying their traditional colors and design like the tartans of Scot-Irish clans or the tribal pottery motif of the ancient Native Americans. Their family crest is of a style that sets fear into their natural enemies, an age old shield that provides safe passage for them and their loved ones.
Sunday, May 19 Frances Fox, Artist, Weaver and Local Historian One of the most important early 20th century developments in Gatlinburg’s was the Phi Beta Phi Settlement School, created in 1910 to improve the educational standards for children and women in particular. It also stressed native handicrafts production as a means of raising local economic standards. Find out from Frances, one of its former students, how the school shaped the life of its students and contributed to the good of the community.
Tuesday, May 21 Glenn Cardwell, Pittman Center Mayor, Historian and Former Park Ranger In 1919, a Methodist missionary preacher came through the area then known as Emerts Cove, an area just to the northeast of Gatlinburg. Dr. Burnett realized there was a great need for a center to provide education and health needs to these impoverished people and he took his vision to the Methodist Episcopal Church who adopted it and opened the school and campus in 1920. Glenn Cardwell was one of those who benefitted from this establishment and he will be here to share his memories and those of other students and teachers of those days.
Thursday, May 23 Ellen Bebb, Retired Teacher and Daughter of Buckhorn Inn Founder Douglas Bebb Ever wonder what growing up in an inn would be like? Find out from Ellen Bebb, who with her sister Tina and four step-siblings did just that, working alongside their parents in the daily tasks of keeping the inn thriving and earning a living.
Sunday, May 26 Robin Goddard, Storyteller, Park Volunteer, and recent recipient of the National George B. Hartzog, Jr. Award for Enduring Volunteer Service for her outstanding service to Great Smoky Mountains National Park Robin will charm you with her presentation about our famous Walker Sisters, entitled Common Women in an Uncommon World. Consider all the people who lived in the Great Smoky Mountains and none will exhibit the character of these mountain people better than the Walker family of Little Greenbrier or Five Sisters’ Cove. Isolated by their environment, each generation was raised with the idea that dependence on any strength save God’s or their own was less than wholesome. Close family ties and an insuppressible belief in a strong pioneer faith were practically inherent in the Walkers. Resourceful, strong-willed, self-reliant, and an illimitable love of this land and their home were all fitting descriptions. The old ways passed down from father to son or daughter were almost sacrosanct. Advancements were not spurned, neither were they sought. An advanced society would have thought them primitive. Perhaps they were, but here in these mountains they lived the only life they knew–the only life they wanted to know. This kind of life elsewhere had passed into history years before. Find out more about that life from Robin.
Tuesday, May 28 Janet Rock, GSMNP Botanist Janet is interested in everything—but especially in rare plants in the Smokies. She has also studied the harvesting impacts of American ginseng and wild leeks and impacts of white-tailed deer on herbaceous vegetation. Find out from Janet about the great plant diversity of the Smokies and its unusual habitats. She has some wonderful photos to share with you.
Thursday, May 30 Carroll McMann, Historian While much is known and obvious to national park visitors, there are some things that are not well-known and often remain secret unless you either stumble upon them or learn of them from a local. Such just might be the case with the Mayna Avent cabin in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Find out about this very special place and the woman whose cabin it was.
Gatlinburg Weather
Click for weather forecast