Dolly Parton’s Former Home Is Hosting Couples Whose Venues Burned in Sevier County Fires
There is no shortage of good deeds attached to Dolly Parton‘s name. After the Sevier Country fires burned nearly 3,700 acres, the owners of a house that once belonged to Parton are offering the property to couples whose wedding venues burned down in the fire. Here’s exactly how the venue is helping, and how it keeps its ties to the Queen of Country.
Dolly Parton’s comments on the Sevier County fires
Parton is from Sevier County. She grew up in a one-bedroom shack along with her 11 brothers and sisters and mother and father, Avie Lee and Lee Parton.
On March 31, the “Jolene” singer tweeted: “I’ve been keeping up with everything going on with the fires near my home area. It looks scary on TV, but I’m proud of how everyone in the area has pulled together like they always do. I’m especially proud of the brave men and women who are working to contain the fire.”
“I know there are some folks who have been affected, and I hope that you will join me in saying a prayer for them. During this time, I’ve also remained in touch with my people at @Dollywood who have assured me everything is okay there,” she continued.
Dolly Parton’s former house is now a wedding venue
Parton purchased the home, known by locals as “Red Top,” for her parents. Today, the property is a small wedding venue, with plans for expansion.
“We invite you to be a beautiful part of history and enjoy the precious memories of Avie Lee and Robert ‘Lee’s’ most recent homeplace Red Top (purchased in 1984),” reads the venue site. “This past Parton farm has a touch of God’s grace with rolling hills showcasing our beautiful Smoky Mountains.”
Couples even have the opportunity to “get dressed or even stay a night or two in Dolly Parton’s parent’s place. If you wish some of the talented Parton family will be available for special arrangements to preform and book gathering as well.”
As reported by WVLT, Red Top Destinations is offering its services to brides and grooms whose wedding venues were lost in the the Sevier County wildfires. They’re offering their venue for free from April 1 to May 1, 2022. In order to qualify, couples must show proof that their venue burned in the fires and that they had paid in full.
The status of the Sevier County fires today
The fire began mid-morning on Wednesday, March 30 amid conditions of strong winds and low humidity. According to WATE, the cause of the fire is yet to be determined. On Thursday evening, the fire was 30% contained and two firefighters were injured and one civilian was airlifted out of the affected area. Over 300 structures have been affected by the Hatcher Mountain Indigo Lane fire specifically, says Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters. Today, the site reports, the fire is under control.
On Monday, April 4, the American Red Cross set up drive-thru distribution areas to give out disaster emergency supplies to those in need.
