The History
The year was 1925. Uncertainty and angst filled the country as the United States was between two World Wars; however, life in Sevierville, TN was peaceful. Up to this point in its history, Sevier County’s residents and economy relied heavily on agriculture. Tourism was virtually nonexistent as The Great Smoky Mountains National Park was not formally dedicated until September of 1940. Due to the mountain terrain and natural barriers throughout Sevier County, most of the farming occurred in the greater Sevierville area, primarily near the rivers. Additionally, Sevierville was vitally important to the local economy as it served as the county seat. It was in 1925, when Dr. John W. and Blanche Ogle purchased approximately 128 acres in Sevierville and named the farm “Five Oaks” for the five small oaks that Dr. Ogle planted in the front yard.
Dr. John W. Ogle was a medical doctor that traveled to see most of his patients on horseback and that’s why he wanted to live near the geographic center of Sevier County. His wife, Blanche Ogle, was a devoted and faithful mother, partner, and friend. The couple raised four children in the farm house that still stands today across the Parkway from The Lodge at Five Oaks. The Ogles were a very active family. Many activities took place at Five Oaks from farming to raising livestock to fishing to entertaining guests at the family home. It was a home that never met a stranger. One of the family’s greatest affinities was breeding Tennessee Walking Horses. No matter the occasion, Five Oaks was a warm, welcoming environment for guests and friends of the family.
Several generations later, the property remains with the Ogle family today. There is no longer any active farming or breeding of Tennessee Walking Horses taking place on the property; however, one underlying theme remains true to this day. Five Oaks remains a warm, welcoming place for friends and family to gather, stay, and create memories. It remains a place that will never meet a stranger.
About The Lodge at Five Oaks
The Lodge at Five Oaks was created to commemorate and celebrate the property’s history and life on the farm in Southern Appalachia. We want to offer our guests the finest in accommodations – real hardwood floors in every guest room; luxurious bedding; light and airy guest rooms that offer a clean and comfortable environment for you to relax after a long day of hiking, shopping or having fun around the area. Our mission is the same today as it was in 1925, to welcome our guests with the very finest in Southern hospitality!
The rustic nature of our furniture will take you back to the days of the greatest generation when rural living was a way of life in the south. We’ve taken a few liberties, mind you, for your comfort that are not consistent with the past. Our rooms feature things like large, flat screen televisions for your relaxation, modern walk-in showers, free wireless internet throughout the hotel, and multiple places for you to “charge up” your devices for the next day!
Don’t forget about our slide and other pool toys, fire pits and our poolside outdoor retreat. Think about it like this: you’ll have a feel for farm life without giving up all the conveniences and luxuries you’ve come to enjoy!
Plus, our location right on the Parkway is within walking distance to some of the area’s best attractions, restaurants and shops. You can’t go wrong when you stay with us – the best amenities and the best location in the Smokies.