A small town just outside of Knoxville. It's most famous resident to date is Lamar! Alexander, although it tries on occasion to claim Dolly Parton (as she is from nearby Sevierville). Pronounced "Murvul", "Muravul" or "Maravul," only outsiders and troublemakers pronounce it like it is spelled.
To get there, take Alcoa Highway south out of Knoxville. If you are still alive 25 minutes later, you will be in Maryville.
Serving under Andrew Jackson, he was a hero in the war of 1812, wounded while fighting the Creek Indians. Served two terms in the US Congress, and one term as Governor of Tennessee. Problems with his marriage caused Houston to choose to resign as Governor of TN.
Having moved to Texas, he became commander of the Army of Texas, defeated Santa Anna and became the first President of the Republic of Texas. After convincing the US to take Texas in as a state, served two terms as US Senator, then two terms as Governor of the state of Texas.
Houston was finally removed from office when he committed political suicide by following his convictions and refusing to swear allegience to the confederacy.
Other than that, he didn't do much. :) Houston was not a perfect man, but a great one in many respects...