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McMinn County - Niota
Cities Guide

Niota

 
 • History
 • Government
 • Education
 • Places of Interest
 
     Niota has enjoyed a place in history because one of its native sons cast the tie-breaking vote in the Tennessee House of Representatives, resulting in the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and giving women the right to vote.

     Harry T. Burn, serving his first term in the Tennessee House of Representatives, made history in August 1920 when he was encouraged by his mother to change his vote on the ratification.

     To honor the role Burn played in the amendment's ratification, Niota served as a first day cancellation site in 1995 for a stamp commemorating the 19th Amendment's 75th anniversary. The Niota Post Office was also given the distinction of having a unique cancellation mark, which adds value to the stamps for collectors.

     As in Burn's day, Niota remains a small, quiet town. Niota, first known as Mouse Creek, got its start because a station of the old East Tennessee and Georgia Railroad was located there.

     However, Mouse Creek was often confused with Mossy Creek, which is now Jefferson City. Because of the confusion involving mail and freight, a decision was made to change the town's name.

     Suggestions were sent in by citizens, and Niota, supposedly the name of an Indian chief in a novel being read by John Boggess, was selected.

     Niota has been a center of social activity in McMinn County for years because it is the home of Springbrook Golf and Country Club. The club offers a number of activities for its members, including several golf tournaments held through the spring, summer and fall months.

Government

     Niota has been incorporated since 1911 and is governed by a mayor and a five-member City Commission. Martha Walden is the mayor and Eva Brakebill, Sonya Walden, Ron Wilcox, James Boggess, and William Wilcox are on the City Commission. Sandra Lowry is the City Recorder. The Niota chief of police is Joel Parham and Harrison Slack is chief of the fire department.

     Niota's City Commission meets on the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. The city office can be reached at 568-2584.

     Niota has been a center of social activity in McMinn County for years because it is the home of Springbrook Golf and Country Club. The club offers a number of activities for its members, including several golf tournaments held through the spring, summer and fall months.