Two articles in the Western Mail (Cardiff) described the 1890 Eisteddfod, held in Knoxville.

Source: "Welsh-American Notes," Western Mail (Cardiff, Wales), Tuesday, October 21, 1890

The eisteddfod to be held in Knoxville, Tennessee, on October 10, is the first ever held in the State, and, indeed, it may be safely said in the South, which is a positive proof that the South is becoming populated by the Welsh. The eisteddfod will be presided over by the Hon. David Richards, president of the Knoxville Ironworks; ex-Postmaster-General Thomas L. James; Professor William ap Madoc, of Chicago; the Hon. H. Cloy Evans, of Chattanooga; and other eminent Welshmen. The services of a celebrated lady harpist of Chicago have been engaged, who will render the soul-stirring airs of the Ancient Britons. The Rev. J. Gwrhyd Lewis, of Wilkes Barre, formerly of Ton, Ystradyfodwg, will be the adjudicator of the essays and poetry, and Professor William ap Madoc of the music and recitations. It promises to be an event of unusual interest, and will be attended by a gathering of at least 2,000 Welshmen.

Source: "Welsh-American Notes," Western Mail (Cardiff, Wales), Wednesday, January 21, 1891

The eisteddfod held in Knoxville two months ago has stimulated the Welsh to further organisation in East Tennessee. The meeting was held in the Chamber of Commerce. The eisteddfod proved to be a success. The report of the treasurer was adopted unanimously, and 30 per cent of the guarantee fund was returned to the guarantors. Immediately after the settling of the affairs of the eisteddfod a Cymmrodorion Society was temporarily organised, and the Rev. Lot Lake was chosen president, Mr. Lewis Morgan (Soddy, Tennessee) secretary, and Mr. Morgan Llewellyn (Chattanooga), treasurer. The officers were instructed to assist in obtaining a charter. This is the first effort made in the South to bring together the people who have been so thoroughly identified witht he progress and prosperity of, not only East Tennessee, but of Northern Alabama and Georgia, by organising them into a society devoted to social and intellectual enjoyments.