Washburn

The town became Washburn in 1898 when the railroad built a depot there and also a post office was opened in the town. It is likely named after WP Washburn. Mr Washburn was a partner in the Knoxville law firm of Washburn and Templeton. He was known for arguing a court case for the railroad.

The town continued to grow well into the early twentieth century. In the 1950s, it was decided that northern Grainger County needed a secondary school of its own. Prior to this, any student who wished to go to school beyond the 8th grade had to find a way to get to Rutledge High School, across Clinch Mountain in the county seat of Rutledge. Washburn High School was built. Eventually the smaller elementary schools, such as Thorn Hill Elementary, Liberty Hill School, and Powder Springs Elementary were closed and combined into the new Washburn Elementary School.

 

Washburn Photos