Kingsport, Tennessee was the first planned city in America and its development followed a carefully worked pattern.

Kingsport took its name from an early boatyard, William King's Port, and was initially chartered in 1822. Even before Kingsport's 'official' charter in 1917, the city had a well-established industrial base. This can be attributed in large part to the development of the railroad in 1910. The railroad's arrival opened the way for industry and commerce, heralding a new age of growth and prosperity.

Piece by piece, city fathers John B Dennis and George Carter laid plans for the future. They commissioned Massachusetts planner Dr John Nolen to develop America's first 'model city'. Nolen proposed placing industries along the river, with residential areas on the hills and on higher ground. Meanwhile, Columbia University in New York helped plan the school system.

Drawn by the emerging vision, business leaders began to take note of the town. Among the early recruits was George Eastman, who acquired a wood-distillation plant which is known today as Eastman Chemical Company. The headquarters of both Eastman Chemical Company and American Federated Glass are located in Kingsport. Other large industries include Arcata Graphics, Holliston Mills, Mead Paper, and Holston Army Ammunition Plant.

Downtown Kingsport has been the city's common thread throughout the years. Supported by the National Main Street Program, businesses and shoppers are returning to Kingsport's original shopping district. Historic landmarks such as Church Circle are also a big part of the draw.

Kingsport has an official website which can be found at http://kingsport.tricon.net.