Eleven years ago, a visit to Tennessee's Smoky Mountains offered a profound glimpse into the life and impact of country music icon Dolly Parton. The journey, initially a trip for a travel story focusing on the state, included a planned visit to Dollywood, the theme park Parton co-owns, and a stay at its newly opened luxury hotel, DreamMore.
A reservation mix-up at the hotel led to an unexpected experience: a stay in the Dolly Parton Suite, the singer's personal penthouse at the resort. The suite, meticulously decorated by Parton herself, featured vibrant pink and purple hues, rhinestone wallpaper, shag carpets, and a life-sized portrait of the singer. Its amenities included a kitchenette, a living room, and a lavish bathroom reminiscent of a dressing room, with a bedroom so high it required a “running jump” to access.
A Humble Beginning
The experience extended beyond the suite, offering insight into Parton's roots and her philanthropic efforts. At Dollywood, a replica of the one-room cabin where Parton and her 11 siblings grew up provided a stark depiction of poverty in 1940s Appalachia. Built by her brother and decorated by her mother, the cabin's newspaper-lined walls and family stories shared by her sister highlighted the hardships the family endured.
This humble origin stood in sharp contrast to the music and business empire Parton has since built. The theme park, which Parton invested in and expanded in 1986, has become the region's largest employer, providing jobs for up to 4,500 people during peak seasons. Many of Parton's relatives continue to work within the Dollywood company.
Conservation and Community
Parton's influence also extends to wildlife conservation. For 35 years, Dollywood has partnered with the American Eagle Sanctuary, housing the largest presentation of bald eagles in North America. This sanctuary played a role in the species' recovery from endangered status. Visitors, including the author and her cousin, were struck by the majestic bald eagles viewed up close.
The area surrounding Dollywood, including Pigeon Forge, has seen significant economic growth, with numerous tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops contributing to the local economy. The Dixie Stampede, an Appalachian-themed dinner show, is noted as an example of an attraction that likely thrives due to the presence of Dollywood.
Locals often refer to Parton with deep affection, calling her 'Saint Dolly' or the 'patron saint of Tennessee,' reflecting her significant positive impact on the Appalachian region and its people. The author and her cousin left the visit with a lasting appreciation for Parton's generosity, kindness, and dedication to her home community, cementing their status as devoted fans.