Blackberry Farm started as a perfect setting for a dream home, but unknowingly became one of East Tennessee’s extraordinary landmarks. From a six-bedroom inn to a 68 accommodation Relais & Châteaux resort, the property developed iconic events that celebrated great chefs and winemakers, award-winning musicians and authors, and pro athletes and adventurers.
In the 1930’s Florida and Dave Lasier were captivated by the majesty of these mountains and, on a trip from Chicago to the Georgia coast, discovered the perfect setting for their dream home in Walland, Tennessee. In 1939, while selecting just the right location, Florida snagged her silk stockings in a thicket of blackberry bushes, and the name Blackberry Farm was born.
In 1976, the charm of Blackberry Farm captivated Kreis and Sandy Beall, as well as three other local families that knew how special the property would be for generations to come. With the goal of preserving and protecting the land, the families set about acquiring tracts of land across the Chilhowee Mountain ridgeline. The Beall family realized their own dream of sharing this magical property with friends alongside good food. Kreis made Blackberry the family’s home and opened the beautiful property to the public as a six-room country inn. The Bealls’ vision for Blackberry Farm became a reality, and they began creating a tradition of Southern hospitality, notable cuisine and cherished experiences.
In the 2000’s Kreis and Sandy’s son, Sam Beall, ushered in a new era of the Blackberry legacy with his passion for wine, food, adventure and living a full life. With Sam as proprietor, Blackberry expanded its foundation into much of how the property is experienced today. Wine, farmstead and culinary took on a heightened focus with growing gardens, an expanded wine cellar and the opening of The Barn at Blackberry Farm® and the Dogwood. The property developed landmark events that celebrated great chefs and winemakers, award-winning musicians and authors, and pro athletes and adventurers. The company also saw the development of the Blackberry Farm Brewery® and the Blackberry Farm Foundation®.
No matter the evolution of the property, Blackberry continues to welcome guests from all over the world, as well as nearby neighbors, with the genuine Southern hospitality and personal attention that have become the estate’s hallmark. Today, Proprietor Mary Celeste Beall, alongside the Blackberry leadership team, continues the family’s tradition of hospitality, service and providing unimaginable opportunities and memories for each guest.
At the heart of Blackberry Farm, you will find a family connected by memories, experiences and traditions. Eager to welcome you to this southern getaway, the Blackberry Family, including the Bealls and each team member, is dedicated to providing the ultimate experience.
Meet The Family & Team
