Have you heard about the Lost City of Loyston, a once-thriving small town in Tennessee that’s now completely beneath the water? We aren’t really sure if you have, because only watery ghosts walk the roads that once shuddered with life in this former community. But, if we’ve piqued your curiosity, I invite you to read on to learn more about this ghost town that’s now under Norris Lake in Loyston, Tennessee.

Back in 1933, Loyston, Tennessee was a small community of about 70 residents and a few local businesses. They even had a post office in town!
Wikipedia / Lewis Hines
This once lively community was named Loyston in 1894 after local businessman John Loy. It was only a town until 1936. At this time, it was completely flooded out by the creation of Norris Lake.
Wikipedia / Lewis Hines
When this happened, Loyston, Tennessee lost mills, schools, churches, homes, and memories under the water.
Wikipedia/ Lewis Hines

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The town under Norris Lake had a Main Street which lies in an area known as Loyston Sea.
Wikipedia / Lewis Hines
Today, the Lost City of Loyston is underwater.
Daniel Bueckman/Google Reviews
But we think you can use your imagination when spending time visiting Big Ridge State Park This day trip destination sits along the Loyston Sea.
Do you look at it a bit differently, now? We think it's hard not to since you now know that the Lost City Loyston is under the water.
Flickr/Warren LeMay

There’s an eerie tinge to it, don’t you think? The government helped many of the locals move, and a few banded together to form a town known as New Loyston – one that is only a crossroads now. It’s a town forgotten, left behind, with only the ghosts of what once was to walk the once bustling streets.

Have you visited where the Lost City of Loyston used to be? If so, feel free to share your impressions in the following comments section. And, if you’d like to explore more of the area, we recommend checking out this overnight hike in Big Ridge State Park. For more suggestions of fun things to do in Tennessee, take a look at Airbnb Experiences too.

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The Lost City of Loyston

Marla S. | October 04, 2023

What are some abandoned places to visit in Tennessee? 

Aside from The Lost City of Loyston, here are some abandoned places to visit in Tennessee:

  • Tennessee State Prison in West Nashville: Before its closure in 1992, this abandoned prison was home to inmates such as some who were on death row.
  • Hidden Hotel in Reliance: While it hasn't been open in over 100 years, this former hotel has been taken over by nature - hence, making it very photogenic.
  • The Rusted Ferry in Rome: You'll find this abandoned place in Tennessee that's now on the National Register of Historic Places along Lick Creek.

 

What are some popular ghost towns in Tennessee?

In addition to the town under Norris Lake, here are some popular ghost towns in Tennessee:

  • Mousetail Landing: Similar to Loyston, this ghost town in the midst of a state park is said to be underwater.
  • Wheat: The only remains of this once bustling community is the George Jones Missionary Church.
  • Salem-Overall: You'll find the site of this once-thriving community near Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
  • Elkmont: This popular ghost town has many remains and can be found in the Great Smoky Mountains.

 

 

 

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