Immanuel Church

Historical marker location:
LaGrange, Tennessee
( Marker is on 3rd Street (State Highway 57), on the right when traveling east.)

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The city of Nashville played an important role in the civil rights movement of the 1960s. The city was the site of the first sit-in protest in the United States, when a group of African American college students staged a sit-in at a segregated lunch counter in downtown Nashville in 1960.
Fayette County, located in the southwestern part of Tennessee, has a rich history that dates back to the prehistoric era. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Chickasaw and Choctaw, who hunted and fished in the region. European explorers, such as Hernando de Soto, arrived in the 16th century, but it wasn't until the early 19th century that significant settlement began.

In 1824, Fayette County was established, named after the Marquis de Lafayette, a French general who had provided crucial support during the American Revolutionary War. The county seat was initially located at Somerville and later moved to Moscow, where it remains today. Agriculture played a vital role in the county's early development, with cotton becoming the primary crop. Slave labor was employed on large plantations until the abolition of slavery in 1865.

During the Civil War, Fayette County experienced significant turmoil. It was occupied by both Union and Confederate forces, resulting in numerous skirmishes and battles. After the war, the agricultural economy faced challenges due to the destruction of infrastructure and the loss of labor. However, the introduction of the railroad in the late 19th century brought new opportunities for commerce and trade.

Throughout the 20th century, Fayette County continued to evolve. The development of modern infrastructure, such as roads and schools, improved the lives of its residents. Agriculture remained an essential part of the county's economy, although diversification began to take place. Today, Fayette County is known for its strong community spirit, beautiful natural landscapes, and the preservation of its historical heritage, making it an appealing destination for visitors and a home to its proud residents.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Fayette County, Tennessee.

  • 1824: Fayette County, TN is established.
  • 1827: Somerville is chosen as the county seat.
  • 1861-1865: Fayette County is heavily affected by the American Civil War.
  • 1916: Double Springs School is established as the first consolidated school in the county.
  • 1940s: Military training is conducted at Camp Tyson, bringing economic growth to the area.
  • 1959: Fayette County Lake is constructed as a recreational spot.
  • 1968: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivers a speech in Somerville during his Poor People's Campaign.
  • 1978: Wolf River is designated as a state scenic river due to its cultural and natural significance.
  • 2007: The city of Oakland in Fayette County becomes a Tennessee Main Street community.