Historical Society
Annual Conventions

Since its inception in 1989 the Historical Society has hosted a yearly convention to conduct our business, promote the sharing of knowledge and to explore and enjoy the ET&WNC Railroad area. The convention is usually held in June in the ET&WNC area and for the last few years has been headquartered in Johnson City, Tennessee. The convention has also been located in Boone and Banner Elk, NC in past years. Photos and activities from many of the early conventions can be found here.

The 35th Annual Convention of the Historical Society was held May 23-25, 2025 at the beautiful Carnegie Hotel in downtown Johnson City. Our guest speaker at the Society Business Meeting was Tim Smith, Assistant Director for Engineering at Tweetsie Railroad. The annual train rides at Tweetsie Railroad and at Doe River Gorge along with a visit to the Johnson City Railroad Experience, the new home of the former G.L. Carter Museum HO Scale ET&WNC layout, rounded out the group's weekend activities.

Suggestions for our Convention are always welcomed. Please check for new schedules and updates in our newsletters.

Our next Annual Convention is scheduled in Johnson City for early June, 2026, and we will again be following our usual format!

 

Contact our Vice President Chris Jessee for more information about future Society conventions.