One Last Peek At The Park

Pray for the day

Ready here

2 Views from the air

    Literally hundreds of America's best known Southern Gospel singers and groups have graced the stage at Inspiration park over the years; but perhaps the crowning moment for us was when Anna Carter Gordon Davis (Founding member of the world famous Chuck Wagon Gang and arguably the finest alto ever in Gospel Music) joined the Chucks at our 40th Year Reunion Celebration. Trivia: The original Chuck Wagon Gang was the very first group we ever brought to our hometown, Bryson City, so we were very blessed that we could share in their history once again. 

    Little could anyone know that this would be Anna's final performance on earth. Anna slipped home to be with her Lord shortly after returning home from this visit.

    Harold Timmons is the foremost historian on all thing Chuck Wagon Gang, and he included this info in their recently published songbook. He is currently completing production on a documentary of the amazing history of the group, and we will do our best to let you know the details so you can watch when it is aired.

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    For the first couple of years, the SIS was held at the Sylva-Webster High School ball-field; and from there we moved the sing to our hometown where we rented the Bryson City airport (using the Swain High School ball-field for the Fall sings).

    In 1972, the Lord allowed us to move to Inspiration Park where the first sings were held under the big Revival tent (which belonged to Ralph Sexton, Sr.). As attendance grew, we realized that we needed more permanent structures, and we began erecting the rustic park which included the metal shelter that has been so useful during the Smokies' often unpredictable weather.

    Although we will never forget the many friends and groups who have been the true heart and soul of the Singing In The Smokies; and while we will always cherish the wonderful times and concerts at Inspiration Park, we believe that the time has come to move indoors (air-conditioning, climate control & plush seats!); so if the Lord tarries, the 2010 Singing In The Smokies will be held at the beautiful new Smoky Mountain Center For The Performing Arts in Franklin, North Carolina. Franklin (nicknamed the 'Ruby City' for its many adjacent gem mines), is just a few miles of beautiful scenery south of Inspiration Park.

    Using original newsletters and SGM publications we are currently attempting to compile a list of all groups who have been a part of the Singing In The Smokies since its inception. We especially need copies of year-specific brochures. Any help you can give us will be most appreciated, and we will guarantee safe return of all materials lent to us. To avoid duplication, please call 828.497.2060 before sending any brochures.

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