National Register Listings in Cheatham County, Tennessee
The Great Train Robbery of 1866, one of the most famous train robberies in American history, took place in Tennessee. A group of Confederate veterans stole $90,000 from a train traveling from Nashville to Chattanooga.
About Cheatham County
Cheatham County Timeline
Cheatham County, Tennessee, has a rich history that dates back centuries. The land was first inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Chickasaw and Shawnee. European explorers, such as Hernando de Soto, made brief visits to the area in the 16th century. However, permanent settlement did not occur until the late 1700s when European settlers arrived.
In the late 1700s, pioneers began migrating to the area that would become Cheatham County. They established small farms and communities along the Cumberland River, taking advantage of the fertile land and abundant resources. The county was officially established on February 28, 1856, named in honor of Edward S. Cheatham, a state legislator.
During the American Civil War, Cheatham County was caught in the middle of the conflict. The Battle of Sycamore Mills, fought in December 1862, saw Union forces face off against Confederate troops, resulting in a Confederate victory. The county itself largely supported the Confederacy, supplying soldiers and resources to the Southern cause.
In the decades following the war, Cheatham County experienced growth and development. The construction of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad in the late 19th century brought increased economic opportunities and connectivity to the region. Agriculture, particularly tobacco and livestock farming, became important industries in the county. Today, Cheatham County continues to thrive with a mix of rural charm and suburban growth, offering its residents a picturesque setting and a close-knit community.
In the late 1700s, pioneers began migrating to the area that would become Cheatham County. They established small farms and communities along the Cumberland River, taking advantage of the fertile land and abundant resources. The county was officially established on February 28, 1856, named in honor of Edward S. Cheatham, a state legislator.
During the American Civil War, Cheatham County was caught in the middle of the conflict. The Battle of Sycamore Mills, fought in December 1862, saw Union forces face off against Confederate troops, resulting in a Confederate victory. The county itself largely supported the Confederacy, supplying soldiers and resources to the Southern cause.
In the decades following the war, Cheatham County experienced growth and development. The construction of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad in the late 19th century brought increased economic opportunities and connectivity to the region. Agriculture, particularly tobacco and livestock farming, became important industries in the county. Today, Cheatham County continues to thrive with a mix of rural charm and suburban growth, offering its residents a picturesque setting and a close-knit community.
Cheatham County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Cheatham County, Tennessee.
- 1806: Cheatham County was established on February 28.
- 1820s: Settlements were established in the county.
- 1838: Montgomery County was formed from parts of Dickson and Robertson Counties, with some land coming from Cheatham.
- 1845: Portions of Cheatham County were given to form Davidson County.
- 1875: The county seat was established in Ashland City.
- 1883: Cumberland Railway was completed, improving transportation in the region.
- 1928: The Cheatham Dam was constructed on the Cumberland River.
- 1933: The Cheatham Dam was expanded.
- 1980: Cheatham County became a popular commuter county due to its proximity to Nashville.