Bearing the Torch: The University of Tennessee, 1794-2010

Join us for a conversation with author Bob Hutton and writer/researcher Jack Neely as they discuss Hutton’s highly anticipated book Bearing the Torch: The University of Tennessee, 1794–2010.

Bearing the Torch stands as a comprehensive history of the University of Tennessee—the first of its kind since 1984—replete with anecdotes and vignettes of interest to anyone interested in UT, from the administrators and chancellors to students and alumni, and even to the Vols fans whose familiarity with the school comes mainly from the sports page. It is also a biography of a school whose history reflects that of its state and its nation. Hutton not only provides a much-needed update, but also seeks to present a social history of the university, fully integrating historical context and showing how the volume's central “character”—the university itself—reflects historical themes and concerns.

The program begins at 6 p.m. EDT. Following the lecture, there will be time for Q&A and a book signing. Books will be available for purchase at the event or online at utpress.org.

This event is a partnership with the East Tennessee Historical Society, Knoxville History Project, the University of Tennessee Libraries, and the University of Tennessee Press.

Please register at the link below by Wednesday, October 26, as in-person seating is limited.

tiny.utk.edu/Hutton

Bob Hutton is associate professor of history and Appalachian studies at Glenville State University in West Virginia. He taught history and American studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, for twelve years after receiving his doctorate from Vanderbilt University. He is the author of Bloody Breathitt: Politics and Violence in the Appalachian South (2013).

Jack Neely is a writer, researcher, and longtime journalist whose award-winning column, “Secret History,” appeared in Metro Pulse for more than twenty years. He has served as executive director of the nonprofit Knoxville History Project since 2014. He has authored more than twenty books about Knoxville’s distinctive history, including Historic Knoxville: The Curious Visitor’s Guide, Historic Bearden, Knoxville’s Old City: A Short History, and Market Square: The Most Democratic Place on Earth.

In-Person Location and Reservations:
East Tennessee History Center
601 South Gay Street
Knoxville, TN 37902

Online Reservations:
This event will be streamed online at tiny.utk.edu/HuttonLive

If you have any questions please contact Annamarie Russell, Special Events Coordinator, at hodgessociety@utk.edu