Leach Fire Lookout Tower
RT 1 Leach Rd., Cedar Grove, TN Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2017.
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The famous Battle of Franklin during the Civil War was one of the deadliest battles of the conflict. It took place on November 30, 1864, and resulted in over 8,000 casualties, including over 2,000 deaths.
In its early years, Carroll County was predominantly an agricultural community, with cotton being its main cash crop. The county flourished due to the fertility of its soil and its location along the Tennessee River, which provided transportation for goods. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further boosted the county's economy, leading to the development of new industries and increased connectivity to other parts of the state.
During the Civil War, Carroll County endured the hardships of the conflict. It was the site of several skirmishes and battles, including the Battle of Hollow Rock and the Battle of McLemoresville. Many residents enlisted in the Confederate Army, while others supported the Union cause. The war left a lasting impact on the county, both economically and socially.
In the 20th century, Carroll County experienced significant growth and modernization. The county saw improvements in infrastructure, such as the construction of paved roads and the establishment of electric utilities. Agriculture remained an important sector, but new industries, including manufacturing and healthcare, also emerged. Additionally, the county witnessed advancements in education, with the expansion of public schools and the establishment of higher education institutions like the University of Tennessee at Martin's satellite campus in Camden.
Today, Carroll County continues to be a thriving community with a diverse economy and a strong sense of heritage. Its historic landmarks, such as the Carroll County Courthouse and the Natchez Trace State Park, attract visitors interested in exploring its past. The county's residents take pride in their agricultural roots while embracing modern opportunities for growth and development.
Carroll County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Carroll County, Tennessee.
- 1821 - Carroll County is established.
- 1822 - The county's first courthouse is built.
- 1825 - The town of Huntingdon becomes the county seat.
- 1832 - McLemoresville is incorporated as a town.
- 1862 - During the Civil War, several battles take place in the county.
- 1865 - The war ends, and Carroll County begins to rebuild.
- 1870 - The first railroad is constructed in the county, connecting Huntingdon to Nashville.
- 1895 - The county's second courthouse is constructed.
- 1929 - The Great Depression affects the county, causing economic hardships.
- 1940s - Carroll County experiences growth and development with the establishment of defense industries during World War II.
- 1970s - The county focuses on industrial and economic development.
- 1988 - The Carroll County Landfill opens.
- 2000 - Carroll County celebrates its bicentennial.