Historical Markers in Lewis County, Tennessee
About Lewis County
Lewis County Timeline
Lewis County, Tennessee has a rich and fascinating history that can be traced back to the indigenous tribes who first inhabited the region. Prior to European settlement, the area was home to the Cherokee and Chickasaw tribes, who relied on the land's natural resources for their survival.
The first European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, attracted by the fertile soil and abundant wildlife. The county itself was named after Meriwether Lewis, the famous explorer of the Lewis and Clark expedition. In the early years, Lewis County was primarily an agricultural community, with farmers cultivating crops such as tobacco, corn, and cotton.
During the Civil War, Lewis County, like many other parts of Tennessee, was strategic to both Union and Confederate forces. The county saw its fair share of skirmishes and raids, often resulting in loss and suffering for local residents. Despite the hardships, the county played a crucial role in the Union victory, with many of its young men joining the Union Army.
In the 20th century, Lewis County experienced a significant shift towards industrialization, particularly with the establishment of the Murray Ohio Manufacturing Company in the town of Lawrenceburg. The company brought jobs and economic growth to the county, providing employment opportunities for local residents. Today, Lewis County continues to thrive as a rural community with a strong emphasis on agriculture, while also exploring new avenues for economic development.
The first European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, attracted by the fertile soil and abundant wildlife. The county itself was named after Meriwether Lewis, the famous explorer of the Lewis and Clark expedition. In the early years, Lewis County was primarily an agricultural community, with farmers cultivating crops such as tobacco, corn, and cotton.
During the Civil War, Lewis County, like many other parts of Tennessee, was strategic to both Union and Confederate forces. The county saw its fair share of skirmishes and raids, often resulting in loss and suffering for local residents. Despite the hardships, the county played a crucial role in the Union victory, with many of its young men joining the Union Army.
In the 20th century, Lewis County experienced a significant shift towards industrialization, particularly with the establishment of the Murray Ohio Manufacturing Company in the town of Lawrenceburg. The company brought jobs and economic growth to the county, providing employment opportunities for local residents. Today, Lewis County continues to thrive as a rural community with a strong emphasis on agriculture, while also exploring new avenues for economic development.
Lewis County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Lewis County, Tennessee.
- 1811 - Lewis County is established as part of Tennessee.
- 1836 - Hohenwald, the county seat, is founded.
- 1855 - A railroad line is completed, connecting Hohenwald to other cities.
- 1861-1865 - Lewis County residents serve in the American Civil War.
- 1870 - Lewis County's first public school is established.
- 1909 - Natchez Trace State Park is created in Lewis County.
- 1928 - An electric power plant is built in Hohenwald.
- 1956 - A tornado causes significant damage in the county.
- 1998 - The Buffalo River is designated as a "State Scenic River."
- 2005 - A new Lewis County High School building is completed.