Turtle Rock Retreat began its life as the lodging for the head of the mine run by the Holston Zinc Company. Most reports agree the town of Mascot was named as an acronym of "Mining and Smelting Company of Tennessee." The house was given to my grandfather in 1967 who moved there with his family when he became lead engineer at the mine. My grandparents eventually sold the home to my parents. In the years since my sister and her husband lived there for a time, and it hosted my wedding (one of many family weddings since 1967). The house has cable and internet access, as well as an assortment of DVDs and many books. We hope you will spend much of your time outside, walking the seven acres, visiting the Smokies, or taking advantage of the ever increasing cultural activities available in nearby Knoxville.