American Heritage
Content
How a Bill Becomes a Law in Tennessee
A simple, age-appropriate way to show older elementary kids how an idea moves through the Tennessee legislature and why most ideas never become laws.
Tennessee State Symbols
Learn about Tennessee state symbols including the mockingbird, iris, tulip poplar, and raccoon with fun activities and coloring ideas.
Our Town: Maryville
Discover the history of Maryville, TN - why it is called Maryville, downtown landmarks, and things every kid should know about their hometown.
Blount County History for Kids
A kid-friendly overview of Blount County history including the Cherokee people, Fort Loudoun, Sam Houston Schoolhouse, and early settlers.
Great Smoky Mountains: Our Backyard Classroom
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains as a living science lab - biodiversity, elevation zones, wildlife, streams, seasons, and family field trip ideas.
Maryville Nature Walk Guide
A guided nature walk for families along the Maryville Greenbelt and local trails, with seasonal observations and nature journal prompts for all ages.
Tennessee Rivers and Watersheds
Explore the Little River, the Tennessee River system, watersheds, and the water cycle in East Tennessee. Learn why rivers matter to our community.
Local Field Trip: Sam Houston Schoolhouse
A family field trip guide to the Sam Houston Schoolhouse in Maryville, TN - what to see, discussion questions, and connections to Tennessee history.
Tennessee History Timeline
Key events in Tennessee history from the Cherokee era through statehood to modern times, with a focus on East Tennessee events and a timeline activity.
The American Flag
Learn about the American flag - its colors, stripes, stars, and what they mean. Includes flag etiquette for little ones, the Pledge of Allegiance, and craft ideas.
George Washington: The Father of Our Country
A child-friendly biography of George Washington covering his childhood, leadership in the Revolution, and presidency. Separates myth from reality with discussion questions.
Abraham Lincoln: Honest Abe
A child-friendly biography of Abraham Lincoln - from log cabin beginnings to preserving the Union. Includes the Tennessee connection through Andrew Johnson.
The Star-Spangled Banner
The story behind the national anthem - Francis Scott Key, the Battle of Fort McHenry, and the flag that survived. Includes listening and discussion activities.
The Constitution: Rules for Our Country
What the Constitution is, why it was written, and the big ideas behind it. A kid-friendly explanation of the Bill of Rights and how our government works.
Veterans Day: Why We Remember
What Veterans Day is, how it differs from Memorial Day, ways to honor veterans, local Blount County connections, and activities for families.
Memorial Day: Honoring Those Who Gave Everything
What Memorial Day means, why we remember those who died in service, how to talk to kids about sacrifice, and ways to participate locally in Maryville.
Independence Day: What Freedom Means
July 4th beyond fireworks - the Declaration of Independence in kid terms, what the founders risked, why it matters, and local celebrations in Maryville.
State Symbols Coloring Pages
Tennessee state symbols coloring pages featuring the state bird, flower, tree, and animal with fun facts for young learners.
American Symbols Matching Activity
A draw-the-line matching activity pairing American symbols like the flag, eagle, and Statue of Liberty with their names.