The First Tennesseans: William and Lydia Bean

Nearly twenty years before Tennessee was a state, William Bean built a cabin along the Watagua River and planted roots. In this episode, we tell the story of his journey from longhunter to settler, his friendship with Daniel Boone, and his wife Lydia’s dramatic rescue from execution by Cherokee Beloved Woman Nancy Ward.

It’s the story of Tennessee’s first settlement, the founding of Bean Station, and a life that helped shape the Appalachian frontier.

Like what you hear? Subscribe to the Stories podcast on your favorite podcast app and on our YouTube channel so you never miss an episode.

Thanks for listening!