Rodney Pearson initially played bass fiddle in a bluegrass band comprised of 15-year-olds before landing a summer job at an amusement park in Sevier County back in 1976. Fast forward nearly five decades, Pearson is still with that same park, now known as Dollywood, as a construction supervisor. Reflecting on the park’s transformation from its Goldrush Junction days, Pearson shared his experiences of witnessing its growth throughout the years.
Joining Pearson are six other original Dollywood employees who recently gathered to commemorate the park’s 40th season. They expressed their unwavering loyalty to Dollywood and discussed how it has become a second home to them. Among them, Pamela Wilson and Kathy Self, who started their journey with the park when it was still known as Silver Dollar City, highlighted the sense of community and growth opportunities that have kept them dedicated to their roles over the years.
Dollywood’s commitment to its employees has not gone unnoticed, with the park consistently being recognized as a top workplace. Offering perks such as free tuition, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive work culture, Dollywood has cultivated a loyal and dedicated workforce that values the sense of camaraderie and appreciation fostered within the company.
Even things she couldn’t recall and the company’s habit of sending notes to employees to show appreciation for their hard work are elements of the family-like atmosphere at Dollywood. This close-knit quality of the park is valued by its Dreamer-in-Chief, Dolly Parton. “It’s like being part of a family. If you love your family and are treated well within it, you’ll want to stay,” Parton expressed her gratitude for Dollywood’s staff in an interview with Knox News. She acknowledges the blessings of having wonderful people around her throughout her life and business endeavors, particularly the dedicated team at Dollywood.
Having been part of Dollywood for its 40 seasons, Pearson, Self, and Wilson feel proud of the park’s growth and development. Original employees have played a significant role in expanding the park, building new rides, and making annual improvements during the off-season. Wilson emphasized how Dollywood has become intertwined with their identity, having witnessed its humble beginnings. She marveled at the significant growth, from what used to be a slow day at Silver Dollar City to now a bustling Dollywood offering a wide range of attractions.
Despite its impressive history, Dollywood continues to evolve. A groundbreaking new attraction, set to be the park’s most ambitious and expensive addition, is scheduled for 2026. Parton credits the park’s progress and prosperity to its dedicated employees. She praises the warmth and sincerity with which guests are welcomed by the exceptional staff, attributing the success to the genuine hospitality of the people in the area. Devarrick Turner is a trending news reporter. You can reach him at devarrick.turner@knoxnews.com or follow him on X, previously known as Twitter, @dturner1208. This article was initially published on Knoxville News Sentinel, highlighting why six Dollywood workers have remained loyal to the park: it has become their second home.
