Historical Museum Guide for Tennessee

Tennessee History Museums

Considered to be the most authentic replica of pioneer Appalachian life, activities seem to offer a taste of life as seen through our ancestors' eyes.  Exhibits include the Irwin Chapel, the Arnwine Cabin, and the Mark Twain family cabin.  Located at 2819 Andersonville Highway in Clinton, TN.

The Fly Arts Center is focused on the development of the cultural arts in Bedford County.  At the same location, visitors will find the Bedford County History Museum where visitors can view historical artifacts, photographs and other items related to the rich heritage of Bedford County.  The Arts Center and Museum are housed inside the historic Fly building which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Located at 204 S. Main Street in Shelbyville, TN.

Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park

Dedicated to Nathan Bedford Forrest, a great leader in the Civil War, the park features the Tennessee River Folklife Interpretive Center and Museum where visitors will learn about the life, ways, and customs of folks on the Tennessee River.  Videos about the Civil War history of the area are also available and a monument dedicated to the Civil War Battle of Johnsonville overlooks the battle site.  The monument and museum are located on Pilot Knob, the highest point in West Tennessee at 1825 Pilot Knob Road in Eva, TN.

Tennessee River Freshwater Pearl Museum, Farm, Tour

The only freshwater pearl culturing farm in America was founded in 1979.  Visitors will learn about the history of fresh water cultured pearls which were once harvested in abundance in Benton County.  Tours require advance reservations.  Contact 731-584-7880.  Located at Birdsong Resort and Marina, 255 Marina Road on Camden Kentucky Lake, TN.

The historic 1872 house was the home of Confederate veteran Dr. James Ross.  The house served as the county hospital in the 1940s.  Today, the house has been restored and features a museum with antique medical equipment, farm equipment and other items relate to the early history of the area.  Located at 102 Frazier Street in Pikeville, TN.

Old Bledsoe County Jail will become a museum.

Located in Pikeville, TN.

The museum features historical items, antiques and photos related to the history of Blount County.  Located on Museum Row at 1006 E. Lamar Alexander Parkway in Maryville, TN.

Cades Cove

Thompson-Brown House Museum

[Thompson-Brown House History]  [Museum Photos]

The Thompson-Brown log House is believed to have been built sometime between 1800 and 1825 per archaeologists.  The house is on the National Register of Historic Places, has been restored and holds historic artifacts, memorabilia and items related to the history of Cades Cove, Tennessee.  Located at 1004 East Lamar Alexander Parkway in Maryville, TN

Sam Houston Schoolhouse

The small log field school where Sam Houston taught school before the War of 1812 was built 2 years before Tennessee became a state and it is the oldest school in Tennessee.  Located in Maryville, TN at 3650 Old Sam Houston School Road.

[History]  [Exhibits]

This museum is situated on the site of an old copper mine.  The Burra Burra Mine was headquarters for the Tennessee Copper Company and Cities Service mining operations from 1899 through 1975.  There are 16 original structures at the site.  The Ducktown Basin Museum is housed inside the old mine office.  Visitors will view historical artifacts, photographs and displays depicting the industrial and cultural heritage of the former mining community.  Located at 212 Burra Burra Street in Ducktown, TN.

Museum Center at 5ive Points

[Museum Collections]

The Museum Center at 5ive Points is devoted to the development of attractions and history along Inman Street in the downtown 5-Points District.  The museum is filled with historic artifacts, antiques, and items from the past of the Ocoee Region.  Located at 200 Inman Street East in Cleveland, TN.

Red Clay State Park

Red Clay was the seat of Cherokee government from 1832 to 1838 prior to the Cherokee removal.  Today, Red Clay State Historical Park is an interpretive site on the Trail of Tears.  A replica of a Cherokee farm and council house bring the history of the area to life.  The interpretive center houses a theater, exhibits and artifacts.  Located at 1140 Red Clay Park in Cleveland, TN.

The 1935 McKenzie Post Office is the home of the Gordon Browning Museum.  Collections include historical manuscripts, documents and photos.  There is a genealogical library on the main floor of the museum.  Located at 640 N. Main Street in McKenzie,TN.

Focused on the collection, preservation and display of historical artifacts related to the history of the Clay County, Tennessee area.  Located at 805 Brown Street in Celina, TN.

Opened in 1942, it is one of the first POW camps during WWII.  There is a small museum housing artifacts from the POW Camp.  Located at 4-H Center Drive in Crossville, TN.

The Cumberland County Military Museum

Housed inside the old restored Cumberland County Courthouse, the Cumberland County Military Museum features historical artifacts from the Civil War, WWI, WWII, Korea, Dessert Storm and Iraq.  Learn about our heroes.  Located at 20 South Main Street in Crossville, TN.

Cumberland Homesteads Tower Museum

The Homestead Tower was erected in 1937 to house the government offices of the Cumberland Homesteads, the "New Deal" homesteading program during the Great Depression.  Today, the building is being operated as a museum.  The bottom floor of the tower features museum displays of historical documents, photos and artifacts from the 1930s and 1940s.  There are 97 steps to the top of the Tower, where visitors can access the lookout platform and see most of the original 252 homesteads.  Located 4 miles south of Crossville, TN at the junction of Highway 157S and 68.

The Homesteads House Museum

[Photo Gallery]

The Homesteads House Museum is one of the original 252 houses built under the "New Deal" homesteading program during the Great Depression.  It is furnished as it would have been during that time period... allowing visitors to get a feel for what like was like during the "New Deal" homesteading project.  Located 2 miles from the Tower Museum on State Highway 419 (Pigeon Ridge Road).

Pioneer Hall Museum

[Photos]

The Pleasant Hill Academy building was completed in 1887.  The historic building is still standing today to tell the story of the Pleasant Hill Academy.  Exhibits provide a look into the lifestyle of early Cumberland County and the Pleasant Hill Academy as well.  Located on East Main in Pleasant Hill, TN.

Clover Bottom Mansion - Tennessee Historical Comm.

The Tennessee Historical Commission is housed inside Clover Bottom Mansion.  The mansion was built in 1858 by Dr. James Hogatt in the Italian villa style.  Address is 2941 Lebanon Road in Nashville, TN.

Tennessee Agricultural Museum

[Photo Gallery]  [Online Tour]

Housed inside the Ellington Agricultural Center in Nashville, the museum features 19th and 20th century home and farm artifacts as well as a collection of Tennessee folk art.  Log cabins, a farm house, gardens and a nature trail are included on the grounds and part of the museum tour.

Tennessee State Library and Archives

Holds the genealogical research library and historical archives for the state of Tennessee.  Located at 403 7th Avenue North in Nashville, TN.

Tennessee State Museum

[Virtual Tour]

The Tennessee State Museum is one of the largest museums in the United States and features exhibits detailing history from prehistoric times through the 1900s.  Located at 505 Deaderick Street in Nashville, TN.

Travellers Rest Plantation and Museum

The museum is focused on the preservation, research and interpretation of the historic site which represents life in Middle Tennessee primarily from the Native American period through the Civil War.  The museum offers guided tours of the historic house and self guided garden and Civil War grounds tours.  Call for information on group tours.  Located at 636 Farrell Parkway in Nashville, TN.  Phone: 615-832-8197.

[History of Parsons]

Housed inside the Parsons Cultural Life Center Building, the museum features exhibits and artifacts related to the history of the people who founded the community and the residents who make Parsons their home today.  The Centre also features an art gallery and the Parson Library where researchers will find a genealogy area.  Located at 535 Tennessee Avenue South in Parsons, TN.

Hotel Halbrook was built in 1913 and is a fine example of a railroad hotel in a small Tennessee town.  The beautifully renovated hotel holds a museum featuring exhibits and programs involving the Civil War, railroading and local history of the Dickson County area.  The museum is known for it's collection of artifacts and belongings of Tennessee Governor Frank G. Clement and his family.  Government Clement was born in Dickson.  Located at 100 Frank Clement Place in Dickson, TN.

Cumberland Furnace Iron Museum

Originally known as the Grimes House, the double pen log structure was built ca.1850.  The small iron museum is operated by the Cumberland Furnace Historic Village Association and is a stop on the Tennessee Iron Furnace Trail on the Western Highland Rim.

[Old Photos and Postcards]  [History & Articles]

Operated by the Dyer County Historical Society, the museum features historical artifacts related to the history of Dyer County and life in the bottom land of the Mississippi River Delta.  The museum features the Timmerman dollhouse collection.  Located at 305 College Street in Dyersburg, TN.

Ames Plantation

[Ames Plantation History]  [Ames Manor]

Built in 1847 by John Walker Jones, historic Ames Manor is a Federal Style, two story frame house.  The home is being preserved and maintained.  The Heritage Village features a collection of historical restored structures.  These include the 1830s Stencil House, a one room schoolhouse, a replica brick kiln and the Cotton Interpretative Center which is housed in a restored log cabin.  Visitors to Ames Plantation Heritage Village will get a glimpse into yesteryear in Fayette County.  Contact 901-878-1067 to arrange a tour.  Located at 4275 Buford Ellington Road in Grand Junction, TN.

Cogbill Store and Museum

The original Cogbill Store first opened in the 1890s but burned to the ground in 1998.  The store ha been rebuilt in the 1800s style.  The store sells gifts and crafts.  Located at 14840 LaGrange Road in LaGrange, TN.

Built in 1900 of local sandstone, the old Fentress County Jail was used until 1979.  Today, it is home to the Chamber of Commerce and features a small museum.   Located at 114 Central Avenue W. in Jamestown, TN.

Franklin County Old Jail Museum

Featuring customized tours, guided tours, historic attractions, interpretive displays, artifacts and memorabilia, visitors will explore eight rooms dedicated to special themes.  Located at 400 Dinah Shore Blvd. in Winchester, TN.  Call 931-967-0524 for more information.

The cabin has been restored from materials from David Crockett's last home and holds furnishings and implements from the early 1800s.  Davy Crockett lived here from 1822-1835 and his mother is buried on the property.  Located at 219 N. Trenton Street (Old Hwy. 45 W) in Rutherford, TN.

Teapot Museum

The museum features teapots from all over the world dating from 1750 to 1860.  Located at 309 College Street in Trenton, TN.

West Tennessee Agricultural Museum

The museum is focused on the daily life of the early pioneer and the challenges they faced in settling a new land.  Exhibits and displays of historic artifacts, photos, paintings and antique equipment give visitors a glimpse into the every-day life and the rich agricultural heritage in West Tennessee.  Located at 3A Ledbetter Gate Road in Milan, TN.

Operated by the Giles County Historical Society, the museum features historical artifacts and genealogical records for the family researcher.  Located at 122 South Street in Pulaski, TN.

Pulaski / Giles County Trail of Tears Memorial

The Trail of Tears Interpretive Center is housed inside the historical Immaculate Conception Catholic Church which was built in 1941.  The old rock church has been moved and is dedicated to the story of the Native Americans who were moved from their land by the Indian Removal Act of 1930.  Located just off Highway 64 West next to Sam Davis Park and Steve Spear Field in Pulaski, TN.

Sam Davis Museum

A small museum at the site of the capture and hanging of Sam Davis "Boy Hero of the Confederacy".  A monument stands on the south side of the town square in this National Historic District.  Located at 134 Sam Davis Avenue in Pulaski, TN.

[Johnson's History]  [Brochures]

Dedicated to the interpretation of the life and times of Andrew Johnson, 17th President of the United States, the National Historic Site features a Visitor Center, the old President's Homestead and the National Cemetery known as Monument Hill. Directions to the site.

Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park & Museum

The museum contains artifacts and exhibits depicting the life of Davy Crockett and a replica of the birthplace cabin is included at the park.  The park is located at 1245 Davy Crockett Park Road in Limestone, TN.

Dickson - Williams Mansion Tour

The historical mansion was built in 1821 by William Dickson, Greenville's first postmaster.  The home has seen a lot of history.  It is filled with beautiful antique furnishings and stories about American heroes.  Tickets for tours may be purchased at the General Morgan Inn.  Located at 108 North Irish Street in Greenville, TN.

Doak House Museum

[History]

Tusculum was the first college established in Tennessee when founded in 1794.  In 1818 Reverend Samuel Doak and his son Reverend Samuel Witherspoon Doak started Tusculum Academy.  About 1930, the son built this home on the site.  The Academy continued to grow and move into more and bigger buildings but the Doak family descendants lived in the original house into the 1970s.  The house has been preserved and is currently being operated as a museum by the Department of Museum Program and Studies at Tusculum College.  Tusculum College is located at 60 Shiloh Road.  The Doak House Museum is located 1/4 mile down the road from the Tusculum College on the right hand side.

Main Street Greenville

Tour the historic district of downtown Greenville through this 90 minute guided walking tour.  Purchase tickets at the General Morgan Inn.

Nathaniel Greene Museum

[Exhibits]

Focused on the heritage of the East Tennessee Region, the museum features exhibits, displays and artifacts related to the history of Greenville, Greene County, Upper East Tennessee, the State of Tennessee and even the nation.  Located at 101 West McKee Street in Greeneville, TN.

Old Greene County Gaol

Built in 1804-05, the stone jailhouse is rumored to be the oldest jail in the state of Tennessee.  The original location was smack dab in the middle of Depot Street near the Andrew Johnson Tailor Shop.  It was moved in 1838 to it's current location on East Depot Street.

Operated by the Grundy County Historical Society, the museum is

located at 465 Railroad Avenue in Tracy City, TN.

Stocker-Stampfli Homestead & Farm Museum

Located on Swiss Colony Cemetery Road in Palmer, TN.

[Photos]

The museum is a reconstruction of the 1790s Crockett Tavern and was built on the site of Davy Crockett's boyhood home.  Located at 2002 Morningside Drive in Morristown, TN.

General Longstreet Headquarters & Museum

Located at 5915 East Andrew Johnson Highway in Russellville, TN.

Set to open in the fall of 2013.  Located at 2 W. Aquarium Way in Chattanooga, TN.

Home to the Hancock County Historical and Genealogical Society, the Old Jail was built in 1860.  Today it houses the Welcome Center and the Melungeon Museum.  Located in Sneedville, TN.  Call for hours: 423-733-0140.

Vardy Church Museum

Organized by the Vardy Community Historical Society and dedicated to the preservation of the history of the Vardy Valley and the collection of artifacts, oral histories and other cultural objects.  They have also restored Mahala Mullins Cabin.  See interesting information about the old Vardy Community School.

The museum features all kinds of music.  Located at 14165 Parker Street in Hornsby, TN.

The Little Courthouse

The original courthouse of Hardeman County was built in 1824.  The 2 story log structure has been restored and furnished with benches and chair from a later courthouse of the county.  Docent guides tell the story of Hardeman County and it's historic artifacts.  Located at 215 East Market Street in Bolivar, TN.

National Bird Dog Museum

The museum is a repository of information, art, photography and memorabilia related to the pointing dog and retriever breeds, hunting field trial activities and shooting sports.  Located at 505 Hwy 57 in Grand Junction, TN.

The Pillars

The Pillars is a historic residence.  It was home to John Houston Bills and his family for 140 years.  Today it is operated by the Hardeman County Chapter of the Association of Preservation of Tennessee Antiquities.  Located at 522 S. Washington Street in Bolivar, TN.

Cherry Mansion was built ca.1830 by David Robinson.  The house was used as a headquarters by General U.S. Grant in 1862.  Contact for a tour: 731-607-1208.  Located at 265 Main Street in Savannah, TN.

Sheriff Buford Pusser Home & Museum

The home contains the original furnishings, photos, cars, guns and memorabilia of the Bufford Pusser family.  Buford Pusser was the subject of the "Walking Tall" movies which tell the story of his life and tragic death.  Located at 342 Pusser Street in Adamsville, TN.

Shiloh National Park Service

Shiloh was one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War.  Shiloh National Park preserves the history of this historic site.  Within the park, visitors will find Shiloh Battlefield, Shiloh National Cemetery, Shiloh Indian Mounds and Corinth Battlefield.

Tennessee River Museum

[Exhibits] 

Housed inside the historic 1939 post office building, the Tennessee River Museum is dedicated to commemoration, preservation and education of the heritage of the Tennessee River Valley.  Located at 495 Main Street in Savannah, TN.

Archie Campbell Tourism Complex / Bulls Gap Historic District

Bulls Gap was home to Archie Campbell (Grand Ole Opry Star).  The historic district and tourism complex includes Gilley's Hotel, Old Country Store, a train caboose and the Archie Campbell Museum.  Begin your visit at the Rogersville / Hawkins County Chamber of Commerce  located at 107 East Main Street in Rogersville, TN.

Bulls Gap Railroad Museum

The museum is located in Bulls Gap Historic District and features a collection of railroad memorabilia of East Tennessee.

Hale Springs Inn

Built in 1824 by John A. McKinney, the Hale Springs Inn is being operated today as a hotel.  The inn has three presidential suites and 9 guest rooms.  Located at 110 West Main Street in Rogersville, TN.

Tennessee Newspaper & Printing Museum

Focus of the Tennessee Newspaper & Printing Museum is on the history of newspapers and the printing of newspapers in Tennessee.  The first newspaper to be printed in Tennessee was the Knoxville Gazette which was printed in 1791 by George Roulston who had transported his newspaper press to Rogersville, TN.  Exhibits, displays and old newspapers tell the story of early newspaper printing in the state of Tennessee.  Located at 415 South Depot Street in Rogersville, TN.

Focus is on telling the story of life in Haywood County, Tennessee from the African American perspective.  Exhibits include artifacts such as pictures, clothing, biographies, films, documents and audio tapes.  Located at 709 East Jefferson Street in Brownsville, TN.

Haywood County Museum

Housed inside the former Brownsville Baptist Female College, the museum features historical artifacts and items related to the history of Haywood County along with the Haywood County Sports Museum and an impressive Lincoln collection.  Also known as the College Hill Museum, it is located at 127 North Grand Avenue in Brownsville, TN.

West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center

The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center is an information center for tourists and home to 3 museums.  It is located at 121 Sunny Hill Cove in Brownsville, TN.  Museums in the complex include:

1. The West Tennessee Cotton Museum - Recounts the story of cotton in West Tennessee and how it impacted the lives of people in this region since 1826.  Exhibits and displays include antique farming implements, cotton scales, cotton baskets, cottons sacks and other items related to picking cotton by hand. 

2. West Tennessee Music Museum - Focus is on the history of "Music Highway" between Nashville and Memphis.  Learn about music legends such as Tina Turner, Carl Perkins, "Sleepy" John Estes and Elvis Presley.

3. Hatchie River Museum - Focused on the history and eco system of the Hatchie River, the museum educates visitors about the Hatchie River and it's influence on the history of the area.

Beech River Heritage Museum

The museum chronicles the history of Henderson County through displays of items related to the geology, native inhabitants, early settlers and wars of Henderson County.  The museum features a reconstructed log cabin inside.  Located at 26 S. Broad Street in Lexington, TN.

Paris-Henry County Heritage Center

Paris-Henry County Heritage Center on Facebook

[Cavitt Place History]  [Henry County History]

The Paris-Henry County Heritage Center is dedicated to the preservation and presentation of the history of Paris and Henry County, Tennessee.  Housed in a historic 1916 Italian Renaissance Revival mansion known as Cavitt Place, the museum offers tours of the beautiful building and teaches visitors about the history of the community.  Located at 614 North Poplar Street in Paris, TN.

Humphreys County Museum & Civil War Fort

The museum is housed inside a 1922 mansion and features a Civil War Fort in the back yard!  Exhibits include a Civil War Room, WWI Room, WWII Building, a Jesse James Exhibit, Captain Anderson Exhibit and many collections donated by residents of Humphreys County.  Rental for events is available.  Located at 201 Fort Hill in Waverly, TN.

Johnsonville State Historic Park

[Park Brochure]

The site of the Civil War Battle of Johnsonville is located within the park.  Two large forts: the Upper and Lower Redoubts are open to visitors.  Original Union breastworks (rifle pits) have been preserved throughout the park.  The historic town site of Johnsonville is now under Kentucky Lake which was created in 1944. Located at 90 Nell Beard Road in New Johnsonville, TN.

Loretta Lynn Ranch

The ranch includes:

• Loretta's Haunted Plantation Home

• Butcher Holler Home Place

• Simulated Coal Mine

• Coal Miners Daughter Museum

• Loretta's Frontier Homestead

• Native American Artifact Museum

• Grist Mill Museum

• Fan & Doll Museum

Visitors can enjoy concerts, trail rides, seasonal activities and events.  Camping, RV park and cabins available.  Located on HWY 13, just 7 miles off exit 143 in Hurricane Mills, TN.

Waverly Train Explosion Memorial Museum

A memorial to a 1978 train derailment disaster provides photos, video and newspaper articles as well as comments from those who were there.  Located at West Railroad Street in Waverly, TN.

Located at 105 Montpelier Street in Gainesboro, TN.

Housed inside the original A. J. Bush & Company general store founded in1897, the Visitor Center tells the Bush story.  Located at 3901 US Highway 411 in Dandridge, TN.

Glenmore Mansion   [Photo Gallery]

This Victorian home was completed in 1869.  Now a museum with period furnishings.  Located at 1280 North Chucky Pike in Jefferson City, TN.

[History]  [Museum Tour]

Focused on the history of the Watauga Valley of Tennessee and the early settlers, the museum features exhibits and historical artifacts from the past of Butler and the surrounding region.  Located at 123 Selma Curtis Road in Butler, TN.

Johnson County Welcome Center & Museum

The welcome center is housed in a log building and features historic artifacts donated from residents of Johnson County along with brochures about area information, attractions and lodging.  Located at 716 S. Shady Street in Mountain City, TN.

East Tennessee Historical Society Museum

The Museum of East Tennessee History showcases the history of the 35 counties of the Eastern region of Tennessee.  The Knox County Archives provides court records, genealogy and the history of Knox County.  Located at 601 S. Gay Street in Knoxville, TN.

Marble Springs State Historic Site

38 acre homestead of Governor John Sevier, Tennessee's first Governor.  The site has 5 buildings dating from 1780 and is a living history museum where interpreters demonstrate the history of early Tennessee.

Located at 1220 John Sevier Highway in Knoxville, TN.

Boyhood home of Pulitzer Prize winner Alex Haley, the author of "Roots".  Located at 200 South Church Street in Henning, TN.

Old Jail Museum

The museum is housed inside the 1893 Jail and operated by the Lawrence County Historical Society.  Featuring items and historical artifacts related to the local history of Lawrence County, Tennessee, Davy Crockett exhibits, military items, CCC and POW photos and items along with many historical photographs and documents.  Located on Waterloo Street in Lawrenceburg, TN.

Explore the wild, explore the past and learn about Meriwether Lewis.  Exhibits feature the Maddox Wildlife Collection.  Visitors will learn about the history of Lewis County from prehistoric times to present time.  Something for everyone!  Located at 108 East Main Street in Hohenwald, TN.

The museum features historical artifacts and exhibits related to the past history of Fayetteville / Lincoln County.  Located at 521 Main Street South in Fayetteville, TN.

The Carmichael Inn is a ca.1810 two story log cabin which was once used as a stagecoach inn.  The museum exhibits are related to the Civil War.  Located at 501 Poplar Street in Loudon, TN.

[The Bemis Story]

Housed in the former 1922 Bemis Auditorium building, the museum features exhibts and memorabilia telling the story of this small mill town.  Open by appointment.  Located at 2 N. Missouri Street in Jackson, TN.

The Carnegie Center for Arts and History

The center features exhibits about the Civil War in West Tennessee, including: Fort Henry, Fort Donelson and Shiloh.  Other exhibits have artifacts from around the world and depict various cultures.  A children's museum is also located at this site.  Located at 305 E. College in downtown Jackson, TN.

Casey Jones Village

[The Legend of Casey Jones]

[Facts about Casey Jones]

Casey Jones Village features the historic Casey Jones Home and Railroad Museum, a country store, the Providence House, an amphitheatre, shoppes and much more for a family to enjoy.  Located at 56 Casey Jones Lane in Jackson, TN.

International Rockabilly Hall of Fame Museum

Focused on the preservation and promoting Rockabilly Music.  Located at 105 N Church Street in Jackson, TN.

Nashville, Chattanooga and St. Louis Depot & Railroad Museum

Featuring exhibits of Railroad history and memorabilia in the historical train depot built in 1907.  Located at 582 S. Royal Street in Jackson, TN.

Rusty's TV & Movie Car Museum

Rusty's has over 25 cars that have been used in movies and TV as well as exhibits of movie and TV  memorabilia.  Located at 323 Hollywood Drive in Jackson, TN.

The museum is focused on the preservation of the coal mining history of Tennessee.  Coal mining has been an important part of Tennessee history since 1840.  The museum house coal mining artifacts and histories bringing the story of coalmining in Tennessee to life.  Retired miners tell stories of early coalmining in Marion County.  Located at 900A Main Street in Whitwell, TN.

The Jasper Regional History Museum

The museum focuses on the history of the Jasper and Marion County area but it is a history for all Americans.  Featuring Native American exhibits and artifacts, hand-made quilts, military memorabilia and Civil War artifacts and antiques, the museum is located at 715 Phillips Avenue in Jasper, TN.

Housed inside the former Haridson School Annex, the museum is operated by the Marshall County Historical Society.  The museum features historical artifacts, photographs and documents related to the history of Marshall County and its residents.  For current hours or to make an appointment, contact Don Jeter at jeterdc@usit.net.  Located at 230 College Street, Suite 115 in Lewisburg, TN.

Ancestral home to the 11th President of the United States.  The Federal style home was constructed in 1816 by Samuel Polk.  The home is filled with over 1000 objects which belonged to President Polk and his wife Sarah Childress Polk. Next door, there is a house built in 1820 which was home to the President's sisters.

Mount Pleasant / Maury Phosphate Museum

The museum features exhibits about the Civil War, Native American history, phosphate mining, and doctor/pharmacy along with antiques and historical items related to history in Mount Pleasant & Maury County.  Located at 108 Public Sq. in Mount Pleasant, TN.

McMinn County Living Heritage Museum

McMinn County Living Heritage Museum on Facebook

The Living Heritage Museum is focused on American history.  Featuring exhibits related to Native Americans, early pioneers and their struggles, early agriculture and rural life in Southeast Tennessee.  Located at 522 West Madison Avenue in Athens, TN.

McNairy County Historical Museum

The museum features items and artifacts depicting family life in the early days of McNairy County.  Exhibits include Civil War, medical, agriculture, arts and worship.  Located at 114 N. Third Street in Selmer, TN.

Housed inside the historic 1880 gothic styled law office building, the museum features historic artifacts and genealogies related to the history of Meigs County.  Located at 200 Smith Avenue in Decatur, TN.

Charles Hall Museum

Focus of the museum is the preservation of Appalachian history with particular emphasis on the Tellico Plains area.  Charles Hall served as mayor of Tellico Plains for 31 years and had a great interest in history.  The museum features his collections as well as many historical artifacts and items donated by residents.  Located at 229 Cherohala Skyway in Tellico Plains, TN.

Craighead Caverns

[History]

Not just a cave!  Go on a Lost Sea Adventure.  The underground lake is the largest underground lake in Sweetwater, TN and visitors can take a tour in a glass-bottom boat.  After the tour, visitors  can enjoy Old Sweetwater Village where there are authentic log cabins, a general store, ice cream parlor, demonstrations of glassblowing and food.  Located at 140 Lost Sea Road in Sweetwater, TN.

Fort Loudon State Historic Area

[History]  [Photo Gallery]

Fort Loudon was created during the French and Indian War (1754-1763).  Fort Loudon was captured by the Cherokees in 1760 and the Fort was abandoned.  Today, Fort Loudon has been reconstructed and the park features a Visitor's Center.  Re-enactments are demonstrated at the Fort site seasonally.  Located at 338 Fort Loudon Road in Vonore, TN.

Sequoyah Birthplace Museum

[Photo Gallery]  [About Sequoyah]

The museum is focused the promotion of the understanding and appreciation of the history and culture of the Cherokee Indians in Eastern Tennessee and in particular the life and times of Sequoyah.  Located in the Great Smokey Mountains of East Tennessee on the shores of Tellico Lake, 37 miles south of downtown Knoxville of Highway US 411 in Vonore, TN.

The Customs House Museum and Cultural Center is one of Tennessee's largest general museums.  The museum is filled with exhibits of fine art, science and history and lots of activities for people of all ages.  Part of the museum i housed inside the 1898 Federal Post Office and Custom House.  Located at 200 South Second Street in Clarksville, TN.

Montgomery County Historical Society Train Station Museum

The old Montgomery County Train Station is home to the Montgomery County Historical Society.  The Society features a museum, a gift shop, historical artifacts, art exhibits and a historic train on the track.  The station is available for rental for special events.  Located at 189 10th Street in Clarksville, TN.

[Photos]

Built in 1893, the first jail in Moore County operated until 1990.  Today the old jailhouse is operated by the Moore County Historical Society as a museum.  The museum features historical artifacts, authentic jail cells, vintage clothing and displays of Moore County history.  Located at 231 Main Street in Lynchburg, TN.

Rugby is a British founded village.  Today it is a living history village.  Located at 5517 Rugby Hwy in Rugby, TN.

Overton County Heritage Museum

Operated by the Overton County Historical Society, the local history museum is located on West Broad Street in Livingston, TN.

Birthplace and home to Cordell Hull who was Secretary of State 1933-1934.  Famous for his role in establishing the United Nations, he received the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1945.  The museum is located west of Byrdstown and is devoted to the history of Cordell Hull.

Ducktown Basin Museum - Burra Burra Mine

[History]

Housed inside the old headquarters for the Tennessee Copper Company, the museum features artifacts, exhibits and old photos related to the early history of copper and mining in this area of Tennessee.  Located at 212 Burra Burra Street in Ducktown, TN.

Cookeville Depot Museum

Housed in the 1909 Cookeville Railroad Depot, the museum features railway artifacts, railroad photos, a caboose and other railroad memorabilia.  Located at the corner of Broad Street and Cedar Avenue in Cookeville, TN.

Robertson County History Museum

[History]

Housed in the old Springfield Post Office building, the museum is focused on the collection and preservation of historical documents and items related to the history of Robertson County.  Located at 124 6th Avenue West in Springfield, TN.

Dunlap Coke Ovens Museum

[History of Coke Ovens Park]

Coal mining was begun in 1899 on the Fredonia Mountain overlooking Dunlap, Tennessee.  This industry grew into a huge industrial complex featuring over 250 coke ovens at the base of the mountain.  Today, the Sequatchie Valley Historical Association maintains the history of the Coke Ovens and mining heritage in the Coke Ovens Park and the Dunlap Coke Ovens Museum where visitors can learn a about this industry and it's impact on the town of Dunlap.  Historic Coke Ovens Park is located 3/4 mile west of downtown Dunlap, TN.  Exit off of US 27 on Cherry Street in downtown Dunlap and follow the signs to Coke Ovens.

Sevier County Heritage Museum

The museum is focused on the history of the Sevier County area of Tennessee.  The museum features historical artifacts and items donated by local residents.  The museum is housed inside the 1940 US Post Office building located at 167 Bruce Street in Sevierville, TN.

C. H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa

The C.H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa is a prehistoric American Indian archaeological site dating back to the 15th century. The site features a Mississippian mound complex, nature trail and arboretum, hands-on archaeology lab, and exhibits that explore the history and life-ways of Native Americans of the historic and prehistoric southeastern United States. Located at: 1987 Indian Village Drive, Memphis, Tennessee 38109.

Cordova Museum

[Museum Gallery]

The focus of the Cordova Museum is to collect and preserve the history of the town of Cordova as well as the lineage of early setters.  Located at 1017 Sanga Road in Cordova, TN.

Graceland   [Virtual Tour & Photos]   [Graceland Cam]

Mansion home of Elvis Presley.  The unique home draws visitors by the scores.  You will see how the king of rock and roll lived and played.  On display are his clothes, cars, platinum and gold records and other Elvis memorabilia.

Located at 3765 Elvis Presley Boulevard in Memphis, TN.

The focus of the Smith County Heritage Museum is to collect and preserve the history and heritage of all communities of Smith County, Tennessee.  Housed inside the former W. E. Stephen's Building, the museum is located at 107 Third Avenue E. in Carthage, TN.

This living history museum and historic site is located in Piney Flats, Tennessee.  U.S. Territorial Capital from 1790-1792, this home of William Cobb saw Governor Blount in residence, who was conducting the business affairs of the new Southwest Territory.  Rocky Mount has been open to the public since 1962 and today you will see history in motion when you visit this fine living history site.

Bledsoe's Fort Historical Park

This historical site and park is preserved by the Bledsoe's Lick Historical Association.  Included in the 80 acre park are an archaeological dig of Isaac Bledsoe's Fort, constructed in 1780 along with the Old Spencer Mill, Wynnewood, the Irish Cottage of Hugh Rogan, Thomas Sharp Spencer monument and remainders of an old Native American town.  The area is well known for it's refreshing mineral springs.

Cragfont Mansion 

[History of Cragfont]  [Winchester Descendants]

Known as the finest mansion on the Tennessee frontier, this majestic home was completed in 1802 and was home to General James Winchester. 

Rock Castle Historic Home

This rock home owned by Daniel and Sarah Michie Smith of North Carolina, was constructed in 1784.  It was once part of a plantation which comprised over 3000 acres.  Today, it is a museum located on 18 acres in Hendersonville, TN.  Amidst the grounds is the old smokehouse and a family cemetery.

Sumner County Museum

The museum houses 3 floors of exhibits and memorabilia related to early life in Sumner County, TN.  Located at 183 W. Main Street in Gallatin, TN.

Wynnewood Log Inn

Constructed in 1828 by A. R. Wynne, Stephen Roberts and William Cage as a Stagecoach Inn and Mineral Springs Resort.  Possibly the largest log building ever built in Tennessee, it is 142 feet long.  It is found in the Castalian Springs area of TN.

The museum features exhibits of historical artifacts from Tipton County's rich heritage.  It is located in the park for the Veterans Memorial & Nature Center at 751 Bert Johnston Avenue in Covington, TN.

The original Hartsville train depot was built in the 1800s.  Today, it has been restored and holds items related to the history of Hartsville and Trousdale County.

The replica of an old train depot holds a collection of railroad memorabilia and exhibits the rich railroad history of Erwin.  The Clinchfield Railroad Museum is next to the Unicoi County Heritage Museum located at 529 Federal Hatchery Road in Erwin, TN.

Unicoi County Heritage Museum

Housed in a historic Victorian home, the museum showcases the history of Unicoi County.  The house has been restored to it's former beauty and 9 rooms are open to the public.  Located at 529 Federal Hatchery Road in Erwin, TN.

Home to the Union County Historical Society and operated as a museum featuring historical items related to Union County.  Located at 3824 Maynardville Highway in Maynardville, TN.

Located at 58471 Red Arrow Highway in Hartford, TN.

This Victorian mansion was built by entrepreneur Clay Faulkner in 1896 to entice his wife to move next to the woolen mill where he made Gorilla Pants -- "so strong even a gorilla couldn't tear them apart." Called "Tennessee's Biltmore" by PBS, it had all the "modern conveniences" -- electric lights, indoor plumbing, central heat and more. Today, the National Trust award winning property is filled with museum quality Victorian antiques. Some say it's presided over by a friendly ghost, perhaps the proud builder himself. Located on Faulkner Springs Road in McMinnville, TN, the mansion is open for guided tours.

Tipton - Haynes Historical Home and Site

This historic structure began with the 25x35 foot log cabin belonging to Colonel John Tipton.  It has been expanded and the cabin is now contained inside the large white house.  There are 11 buildings at this homestead including a smokehouse, loom house, pigsty, still house, springhouse, a large barn and corncrib along with the home of slave George Haynes.  The museum houses exhibits and archives relating to the early history of Tennessee and the families who lived here.  Location is 2620 South Roan Street in Johnson City, TN.

T. S. Stribling Library & Museum

The lower level is the Clifton Public Library but the upper level is still the same as it was left by the Pulitzer Prize winning novelist, including his personal library.  Located at 300 East Water Street in Clifton, TN.

J. Houston Gordon Museum

Operated by the University of Tennessee, the museum gallery is adjacent to the Corbitt Special Collections reading area to the left of the library circulation desk.  Located in the Paul Meek Library at 10 Wayne Fisher Drive in Martin, TN.

Sparta Rock House

Built between 1835 and 1839 by Barlow Fiske, it was part of a popular stage stop and saw such visitors as James K. Polk, Sam Houston, Frank Clement and Andrew Jackson.  This small stone house is located on Highway 70 in Sparta, TN and is preserved by the DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution).

Carter House

Built in 1830 and located at 1140 Columbia Avenue just south of Franklin, Tennessee, the house was occupied by three generations of the Fountain Branch Carter family.  It was used as a command post during the Civil War by Major General Jacob D. Cox and was the location of some of the fiercest battles.  There have been many claims made by folks who have seen ghosts roaming the home.

Lebanon Museum and History Center

Virtual Tours Below:

[Prehistory]  [War Between The States]  [20th Century to Present Time] 

The museum features historical exhibits and artifacts related to the history of Lebanon, Tennessee from prehistoric to modern times.  Located at 200 Castle Heights, Ave. N. in Lebanon, TN.

Sellars Farm State Archaeological Sites

The area is is being excavated for the remains of a Native American that existed in prehistoric times but abandoned before early European settlers arrived in Middle Tennessee.  Located inside Long Hunter State Park located at 2910 Hobson Pike in Hermitage, TN.

Wilson County Museum

Housed inside the historical Fite / Fessenden House, the museum features historical artifacts related to the last 200 years in Wilson County.  Located at 236 W. Main Street in Lebanon, TN.

Museum Index for Other States

Tennessee Census Records