Dolly Parton was born right outside of the Great Smoky Mountains in Sevierville, Tennessee. Growing up in the Pentecostal Church of God, music was large part of her childhood. Performing as a child on local radio stations and at the Grade Ole Opry, Dolly incorporated traditional elements of East Tennessee Folklore into her popular music. In the 1960’s, Dolly used her fame to bring tourist attraction to her hometown of Sevierville through what is now known as Dollywood. Dolly has been praised for her efforts in aiding the once depressed region through offering jobs and tax revenues. She is currently active in raising money for a $90 million hospital and cancer center in her hometown of Sevierville, Tennessee. Dolly is a perfect illustration of a girl building herself up from rags to riches, and her selfless success is part of the foundation of modern Sevierville.
Posted by Chris Ann 
