Robert E. Lee Restaurant

On the site of the Robert E. Lee Hotel, there stood, until removed for that structure, the Bridges House, also known at that time as Bridges Tavern. This house was erected in 1830. In the early days, this was a central point in the town. The Tavern stood on the main highway, and mail from North or South was relayed there. The stage, known as the "Washington Express," was due there about sundown, and there always was a crowd to see its six Kentucky thoroughbreds draw it into Athens.

Part of the Athens Civil War Patterns Walking Trail located in Athens, TN.