06/20/2026
Yesterday morning, one of our beloved vintage Spartan trailer coaches at The Spartan Village in Tellico Plains was destroyed by fire.
While we do not yet know the cause, the Fire Chief indicated that it may have originated from an appliance such as the microwave, stove, or coffee maker. I have requested a formal investigation so we can better understand what happened.
What I do know is this: I am incredibly thankful that no one was injured.
Earlier that morning, I had come to The Spartan Village to prepare one of our trailer coaches for an upcoming guest. At the same time, I was giving neighbors from Madisonville a tour of the park. We had been inside the Americana—one of our most popular themed coaches—only about ten minutes before the fire started.
We had turned the water back on and made sure the hot water heater was operating, as I routinely shut it off between guests. When the water wasn't warming as expected, my neighbor checked the electrical panel and found a breaker that had been switched off. After restoring power, I checked the coffee maker to ensure a pod had not been left inside and plugged it back in. I even commented that it seemed odd that I couldn't find an obvious off switch on the machine.
A short time later, our beautiful Americana was gone.
For those who have visited The Spartan Village, you know these aren't just rental units. Each vintage coach has its own personality, history, and story. Losing one feels like losing a piece of the park itself.
My heart is heavy today, but it is also full of gratitude—
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the emergency responders who answered the call yesterday morning. To the firefighters, police officers, EMS personnel, and everyone who responded from Tellico Plains and neighboring communities, including Mt. Vernon, thank you for your professionalism, compassion, and quick action.
Most importantly, because of your rapid response, no one was hurt. For that, I will be forever grateful.
Watching a fire consume something you've worked so hard to create is devastating but seeing so many dedicated men and women show up without hesitation was a powerful reminder of the strength of our community.
As a veteran, I have a deep appreciation for those who choose a life of service. Yesterday, each of you demonstrated what that commitment looks like in action, and I want you to know how much your efforts were appreciated.
Thank you for all that you do.
As we learn more from the investigation, I will share updates.
For now, I am counting my blessings and reminding myself that things can be replaced. People cannot.
Thank you all for your prayers, encouragement, and support.
❤️ Julie Johnston & Eric Roten
The Spartan Village