See Scruffy City

Custom Hat Bar and Souvenirs with a quirky local twist is opening very soon at 27 Historic Market Square, Knoxville

Knoxville is affectionately dubbed “Scruffy City” for its gritty, creative vibe. See Scruffy City was created as a sister business of Earth To Old City to focus on local culture.

“Signs are plastered on the windows at 27 Market Square, between Proper Popcorn and Subway, that say “See Scruffy City.” It’s not only a suggestion for tourists wandering through Market Square and locals looking for a place to eat; it’s the name of the West family’s soon-to-come souvernier shop opening in December…

It will have typical gift shop items like mugs, shot glasses, clothes and cards, but its originality comes from its custom hat bar, Paula West said. “You’ll be able to personalize hats − anything from cowboy hats and trucker caps to garden hats and fedoras.”

Customers can pick out a hat, get it fitted and then pick out accessories to personalize it. You’ll be able to add broaches, pins, fabric, charms and get your initials burned into the brim…

West remembers when Market Square was mostly abandoned, and even when there were businesses, most of them were closed for an evening crowd. It’s hard to imagine, but Market Square was dead once the sun set. The West family had a vision for the area and wanted the city to embrace its “KEEP KNOXVILLE SCRUFFY” side (support local).

“I do consider myself an ambassador, and I always look for ways to make the city better,” West said.”

~ Knoxville News Sentinel