Rugby is a historic community located in Morgan County, Tennessee. It was founded in 1880 by English author Thomas Hughes as a utopian community based on cooperative living and agriculture. The town was meant to be a self-sustaining colony where residents could live and work together in harmony. While the experiment ultimately failed, Rugby has since been preserved as a living history museum, showcasing the original architecture and way of life from the 19th century.
One of the most notable residents of Rugby was author Thomas Hughes, who founded the town. Other interesting people associated with Rugby include architect Alfred B. Mullett, who designed several of the town's buildings, and actress Lillian Gish, who filmed scenes for "Wild River" in Rugby.
Rugby's population has fluctuated over the years, with a peak of around 350 residents in the late 19th century. Today, the town is home to a small number of permanent residents, as well as seasonal visitors and tourists.
Rugby is located in the Cumberland Plateau region of Tennessee, surrounded by rolling hills and dense forest. The town is situated along the Clear Fork River, which provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.
Rugby's economy is primarily driven by tourism, with visitors coming to explore the historic buildings, museums, and natural beauty of the area. The town also has a small number of shops and restaurants that cater to tourists and locals alike.
Rugby has a rich cultural heritage, with many of the original buildings and traditions from the 19th century still preserved today. The town hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its history and heritage.