Dayton, Tennessee
by Tyler Kirkendall
Dayton, TN, or “Bass Town U.S.A.” as it’s called, is an ideal stop on the Tennessee RiverLine for competitive and recreation anglers, history buffs, and those looking to enjoy a charming, quaint getaway. Those interested in American history may know Dayton’s other nickname, “Monkeytown,” which was earned from one of the most iconic and fascinating legal trials in United States history.
Today, visitors are drawn to Dayton to experience Lake Chickamauga on the Tennessee RiverLine and experience the peaceful Southern lifestyle its residents enjoy. The city is repositioning itself as one of the premier stops on the river, constantly working to expand its outstanding fishing and recreation opportunities.
Visit Dayton!
Gone Fishing
Dayton sits on Lake Chickamauga between RiverLine miles 504 and 505, and it makes the most of its location by hosting frequent fishing tournaments throughout the year. In 2024, Rhea County alone hosted an impressive 24 fishing tournaments, 16 of which launched from Dayton Boat Dock.
Thousands of fishers launch from Dayton’s shores each season hoping to fill their bags with the Tennessee River’s famous bass. Smallmouth, largemouth, and striped bass are local favorites, as well as bluegill, redear sunfish, walleye, sauger, and catfish.
With plenty of space and biting fish, the waters around the town reflect its quaint, outdoor-loving lifestyle.
Dayton is easy to access from the water, with several launch points right on the edge of the city, including a restaurant which will serve boats parked at its dock.
Historic Dayton
Founded as Smith’s Crossroads in 1820 and renamed Dayton after the city of the same name in Ohio in 1877, Dayton’s biggest claim to historic fame comes from the Scopes Monkey Trial in 1925.
The trial addressed the calculated arrest of John T. Scopes, who was charged with teaching evolution in his high school biology classroom. Scopes knew this was illegal under the Butler Act in Tennessee and agreed to be the teacher at the center of the trial after he was approached by its orchestrator, local businessman George Rappleyea.
Discussing the morality of teaching evolution in schools likely wasn’t Rappleyea’s sole motivation. Rather, the implicit goal of the trial was to bring national attention to the City of Dayton and attract visitors for economic gain.
This goal proved to be successful, as famous lawyers and politicians showed up for the media circus to have their voices heard. They weren’t the only circus in town, however, as real carnies brought a monkey, a man dressed like an ape, and an ape dressed like a man to Dayton to entertain the crowds.
Thousands came to see the trial play out despite an overbearing heat wave. The hearing had to be moved outside before its end for safety from overcrowding and overheating. It was the first trial ever broadcast live on American radio.
Ultimately, Scopes lost the trial and was fined $100, but the Supreme Court overturned the ruling since judges legally couldn’t charge fines over $50 and stated: “We see nothing to be gained by prolonging the life of this bizarre case,” bringing the case to a close.
Visitors still enjoy the Rhea County Courthouse today, which underwent a $1 million renovation in 1979 to make it look exactly like it had during the “Monkey” trial. It now serves as the Rhea County Museum – also known as the Scopes Trial Museum – where memorabilia from the trial lines the walls, including the microphone used to broadcast the hearing and other priceless items. A reenactment of key moments from the incident occurs each year in July.
Dayton’s Downtown area has plenty of historic buildings which are populated with antique and vintage stores, restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and more. Downtown is walkable and peaceful, and there is plenty of personality and pride for the city to boot.
Parks Around Town
Dayton is home to several different parks and outdoor facilities. Coming from the river, the first you’ll come across is Point Park.
It sits right on the edge of the water and makes for a great place to stop for a picnic, outdoor games, or simply to relax and enjoy the view before returning to the water. Benches, pavilions, and a walking trail line the park, and there is still plenty of open space to enjoy.
Walking through Point Park can take visitors right up to Downtown Dayton, and it also connects to Pendergrass Park, which offers outstanding new equipment on its playground, and a splash pad when the weather gets warm.
Visitors and residents also enjoy Dayton’s many baseball, soccer, and football fields, as well as tennis, pickleball, basketball, and futsal courts. The Rhea County Community Center (RC3) is a hub of community activity, and it also offers indoor and outdoor sport opportunities.
Dayton residents are excited to share their peaceful and charming town with visitors from the RiverLine whether they are seeking fish, historical perspective, or just a simple getaway.