Torment In The Knobs

by R. Frank McKinney

A historical novel of the nineteenth century and a true story of Mason Evans - a hermit for forty years in the wilds of Starr Mountain.

230 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1982

Reviews

[John Marshall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Torment In The Knobs was written by R. Frank McKinney, the editor and publisher of a weekly newspaper, The Etowah Enterprise at Etowah, TN. The style reflects it. It's a historical novel telling the story of Mason Kershaw Evans, a bright and promising young man who was jilted by his fiancee. Mason never recovered from the heartache. He immediately rejected society, left home, family and friends to become a hermit, living in a cave in in the rugged country of Chilhowee Mountain/Starr Mountain in East Tennessee. For forty years he subsisted on foraged roots, berries and wild game, vegetables and chickens he stole from locals during the night - nearly all of which he ate raw.

The story also includes lots of interesting details about the Trail of Tears, the Civil War, building of railroads and commerce in the area. There is also much history about The White Cliff Springs Hotel (constructed, burned and rebuilt), a famous resort of the time.

American history buffs will enjoy it, especially those interested in the region. The book was autographed with a personal message and given to my father by the author. They had been schoolmates growing up.

[Bill · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great history tying in how the Trail of Tears, Civil War, and more recent events all tie together for McMinn County. However, I felt it was poorly written.