Thomas Campbell McCaughan built the Maple Grove Inn in 1799. Originally, the Georgian style house was two rooms upstairs and two rooms downstairs. The kitchen was located in the cellar. The property once consisted of 300 acres, but all that remains now are fifteen. Much of the added space evolved during the 1980's when Milton Turner, the previous owner owned the estate.

The property was purchased in 1992 by Betty and Tom Lockett, and for the first time it was used as a business instead of a private home. Although there are some discrepancies, the Maple Grove Inn is considered one of the oldest residences still in use in Knoxville. Most of all the furnishings are antiques or reproductions, and each room is decorated in an individual style.