The “Great House Clean-Out” in Johnson City has revealed cherished family heirlooms, including trophies that connect generations to local history. Among the discoveries was a trophy from the 1949 Burley Basket Tournament of Champions, which holds significance not only for the Jilton family but also for the community’s sporting legacy.
The Burley Basket Tournament was named after a basket used in the tobacco industry, a major part of Johnson City’s economy during the 1940s. This tournament featured teams from various colleges and independent groups, with the Leon Ferenbach team emerging as an unexpected champion. Ferenbach, a leading textile mill in the area, was coached by Uncle Ted Jilton, while J.J. Jilton, the family patriarch, played a role in the team’s success.
In a surprising turn, the favored Maryville Gulf Refiners were eliminated early in the tournament, paving the way for Ferenbach to claim victory. They defeated the Cherokee Athletic Association in the semifinals and secured the championship by overcoming Adams Parking of Knoxville in a close match, final score 67-59. The trophy remained in the family for decades, passed down from J.J. Jilton to his son and now to Ned Jilton II.
As boxes were emptied, another trophy caught Ned’s attention—a bowling award won by the “Brothers” bowling team in 1969. This team, comprised of the five Jilton brothers, was known for their camaraderie and competitive spirit. Initially named the “Four Brothers,” they later adapted their title to include all siblings, showcasing their unity.
The Jilton brothers were well-known at Holiday Lanes in North Johnson City, where they became one of the top teams in the area. The team’s success was highlighted by their championship win in 1968, which made the following year’s trophy particularly special. It featured the names of all the brothers, a personal touch that set it apart from other awards.
Ned recalls vibrant memories of spending time at the bowling alley, from the sounds of rolling balls to the smell of food from the snack bar. He also remembers the antics of rival teams, including one that attempted to distract the Brothers with cigars, a strategy that ultimately failed.
Today, the 1969 trophy has a place of honor on Ned’s shelf, serving as a reminder of family gatherings filled with laughter and competition. Although some family members have passed, others, including Uncle Mickey and Uncle Billy Joe, continue to share in the stories that these trophies represent.
The clean-out process not only unearthed these valuable tokens of history but also reignited fond memories of family and community life in Johnson City. The trophies now stand as symbols of both personal and local heritage, bridging the past with the present.
Ned Jilton II, a photographer and history enthusiast, reflects on this journey through family memorabilia, emphasizing the importance of preserving such stories. He invites others to explore their own family histories and the treasures that may be hidden in their homes.
