Recently, the Historic Gatlinburg Inn had the pleasure of hosting a gathering that felt like a step back in time – in the best possible way.
A group of women from the Peachtree Handspinners Guild, based in the Atlanta area, spent time together in the Inn’s Pioneer Room, quietly practicing and sharing the art of hand spinning and knitting. Guests and staff alike paused more than once to take in the scene: spinning wheels gently turning, yarn taking shape by hand, and friendly conversation filling the room.
The women were warm, welcoming, and more than happy to talk about what they were doing. They graciously allowed photos and answered questions, explaining how fibers like wool are spun into yarn using traditional spinning wheels and hand spindles. It was clear that this was more than a hobby. It was a craft passed down through generations, kept alive through patience, skill, and community.
Hand spinning is one of the oldest textile arts in human history. Long before factories and machines, yarn was created one strand at a time, often in communal settings just like this one. Watching the process firsthand was a reminder of how much knowledge and care goes into something many of us now take for granted.
The Pioneer Room proved to be a perfect setting for their gathering. With its historic character and quiet atmosphere, it offered a comfortable place for conversation, creativity, and connection. Moments like this are a big part of what makes the Historic Gatlinburg Inn special. It is not just a building with history, but a place where history continues to happen.
We truly enjoyed welcoming the Peachtree Handspinners Guild and hope their time in Gatlinburg was as meaningful as it was memorable. Seeing a traditional craft practiced so thoughtfully, and shared so generously, was a highlight for everyone who crossed their path.
