Mountain Branch, National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers

Brownlow Monument

Mountain Branch, National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers was one of the branches of the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers (NHDVS), an organization established to care for disabled and indigent veterans of the American Civil War. The Mountain Branch is located in Johnson City, Tennessee.

History[edit | edit source]

The Mountain Branch was authorized by Congress in 1901 and opened in 1903. It was part of a broader effort to provide care and support for veterans who had served in the Union Army during the Civil War. The site was chosen for its healthful climate and scenic beauty, which were believed to be beneficial for the veterans' recovery and well-being.

Facilities[edit | edit source]

The Mountain Branch included a variety of facilities designed to meet the needs of its residents. These included dormitories, a hospital, dining facilities, and recreational areas. The architecture of the buildings reflected the Colonial Revival style, which was popular at the time.

Operations[edit | edit source]

The Mountain Branch operated as a self-sufficient community, with its own farms, workshops, and other enterprises. This not only provided employment for the veterans but also helped to reduce the operating costs of the facility. The branch was managed by a governor, who was responsible for the overall administration and welfare of the residents.

Transition to VA Medical Center[edit | edit source]

In 1930, the NHDVS was integrated into the newly formed Veterans Administration (now the United States Department of Veterans Affairs). The Mountain Branch continued to serve veterans under the new administration and eventually became part of the James H. Quillen VA Medical Center, which continues to operate on the site today.

Significance[edit | edit source]

The Mountain Branch is significant for its role in the history of veteran care in the United States. It represents an early effort by the federal government to provide comprehensive support for disabled veterans, a mission that continues to this day through the Department of Veterans Affairs.