The Sequatchie Valley was part of Cherokee lands until 1805, when the Cherokee ceded it to the U.S. as part of the Treaty of Tellico. The valley was probably named after a Cherokee Chief, but the name has also been rumored to mean "beautiful valley" in the Cherokee language. By the late 18th century, the valley had been identified by long hunters, one of whom, Anthony Bledsoe, became the county's namesake. Bledsoe County was formed in 1807, with the small town of Madison as its county seat.
Pikeville was established in 1816 on lands donated by Charles Love, an early Sequatchie settler. The origin of the town's name is unknown, although some have suggested that it was named for explorer General Zebulon Pike (1779–1813). By 1818, the Bledsoe County seat had been moved from Madison to Pikeville. The town was incorporated in 1830.
(Source: Wikipedia)
Pikeville was established in 1816 on lands donated by Charles Love, an early Sequatchie settler. The origin of the town's name is unknown, although some have suggested that it was named for explorer General Zebulon Pike (1779–1813). By 1818, the Bledsoe County seat had been moved from Madison to Pikeville. The town was incorporated in 1830.
(Source: Wikipedia)
