Alcoa (Images of America)

Alcoa, incorporated in 1919 and located in Blount County, was established by Aluminum Company of America (ALCOA) officials who desired to create a residential community for employees. The company was drawn to the area because of the abundance of waterpower resources. The Little Tennessee River and its tributaries were considered a good source of the hydroelectric energy essential to the production of aluminum. Alcoa was among the first planned communities in the state and the first municipalities in the nation to adopt a city manager–commission government. Alcoa was home to Wade Houston, former University of Tennessee basketball coach, and was the birthplace of NFL Hall of Fame member Lynn Swann. Boasting the world’s largest factory under one roof during World War II, the city has established a record of excellence in industrial production, quality community life, education, and athletics.