Sycamore Shoals played a significant role in 18th-Century history as the setting for some of the most dramatic events to occur in the expansion of America's western boundary. Here was established the first permanent American settlement outside the original 13 colonies, and the Watauga Association--the first majority-rule system of American democratic government--was formed in 1772. Also located in this area is a visitor center, museum, theater, picnic area and a reconstruction of Fort Watauga.