J. Fred Johnson

J. Fred Johnson (1874-1944) is considered the founder of modern Kingsport. Johnson worked closely with the industrialists that built operations in Kingsport, and he was instrumental in bring new businesses to town. During his lifetime, Johnson was considered the unelected leader of Kingsport and it was through him that most of the city’s early planning decisions emanated. Today, there are a number of facilities within Kingsport named for Johnson including the public library and J. Fred Johnson Stadium.