* Part 9 in a series
With the advent of public works in Graham County, activity at once started on the construction of good roads.
It wasn’t until 1931, however, that Tapoco could be reached from Tennessee by automobile.
Between 1916-30, transportation between Tapoco and Calderwood was by train or rail bus. U.S. Hwy. 129 was completed in 1931, connecting Graham County with Tennessee on an all-weather road.
The opening of this new road marked a new era in Graham County history. For the first time, Knoxville and other parts of east Tennessee could be reached in a matter of hours, instead of days.
And with this new road sprang up a business – in the form of tourist trade.
Tourism increased yearly due to the scenic beauty found in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Nantahala National Forest, including Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest. The lakes created from the development of hydroelectric dams were also a draw.
The village of Tapoco came into existence in 1916 during the construction of Cheoah Dam and its power house. The village and immediate surroundings comprised a population of around 200 persons. One half of those were Carolina Aluminum employees and their families, who lived in 23 modern five- and six-room houses, and two prefabricated houses. The village had paved streets.
Tapoco’s location on the banks of the Cheoah River affords the murmur of water flowing over the rocky stream bed. The area of the village is noted for its landscaping, including a large flower bed.
The village was designed and built for the functional purpose of comfortable living. It was provided with street lighting, a state-approved water system, sewer system, fire protection, a grade school, a Baptist Church, swimming pool and playgrounds.
In the late 1920s, the living quarters for the single working men at the Cheoah Development needed to be replaced. In 1930, Tapoco Lodge was constructed. With the opening of U.S. Hwy. 129 a year later, Tapoco Lodge was made accessible to tourists. The lodge became noted for its distinctive, high-quality cuisine of Southern tradition, which received national recognition. It was also commended for its good housekeeping.
The dining room – with a capacity of 90 persons – served more than 1,000 meals weekly during the summer months. The main lodge could accommodate 28 guests, while five cottages located nearby could provide lodging for an additional 36 persons.
Marshall McClung is the historical columnist for The Graham Star. He can be reached via email, mcclungs@email.com.