Drane-Foust House
Historical marker location:
319 Home Avenue, Clarksville, Tennessee
( Marker is on Home Avenue north of College Street (Tennessee Route 48), on the right when traveling north.)
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Tennessee is home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. The park covers over 500,000 acres and attracts millions of visitors each year.
About Montgomery County
Montgomery County Timeline
Montgomery County, located in the state of Tennessee, has a rich and diverse history. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee and Chickasaw, until European settlers began arriving in the late 18th century. In 1780, James Robertson established the first settlement, known as the Old Town, near what is now known as Port Royal State Park.
The county was officially formed in 1796 and named in honor of John Montgomery, a soldier who fought in the American Revolutionary War. It quickly became an important transportation hub, with the Red River and the newly constructed Cumberland River providing easy access for trade and commerce. In 1804, the city of Clarksville, named after General George Rogers Clark, was established as the county seat.
During the Civil War, Montgomery County played a significant role. Located along the Cumberland River, Clarksville was a strategic point for both Union and Confederate forces. The area saw numerous skirmishes and battles, including the Battle of Fort Donelson in nearby Stewart County. The city was occupied by Union troops for much of the war, serving as a supply depot and base of operations.
After the war, Montgomery County experienced significant growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further enhanced the county's economic prospects. Industries such as tobacco processing, furniture manufacturing, and clothing production flourished. In the early 20th century, Austin Peay State College (now Austin Peay State University) was established in Clarksville, making it an educational center in the region.
Today, Montgomery County is a thriving community with a diverse economy, vibrant arts and culture scene, and a strong military presence due to the nearby Fort Campbell Army base. The county's historical significance remains evident in its many historic sites and landmarks, preserving its past and serving as a reminder of the rich history that shaped the area.
The county was officially formed in 1796 and named in honor of John Montgomery, a soldier who fought in the American Revolutionary War. It quickly became an important transportation hub, with the Red River and the newly constructed Cumberland River providing easy access for trade and commerce. In 1804, the city of Clarksville, named after General George Rogers Clark, was established as the county seat.
During the Civil War, Montgomery County played a significant role. Located along the Cumberland River, Clarksville was a strategic point for both Union and Confederate forces. The area saw numerous skirmishes and battles, including the Battle of Fort Donelson in nearby Stewart County. The city was occupied by Union troops for much of the war, serving as a supply depot and base of operations.
After the war, Montgomery County experienced significant growth and development. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further enhanced the county's economic prospects. Industries such as tobacco processing, furniture manufacturing, and clothing production flourished. In the early 20th century, Austin Peay State College (now Austin Peay State University) was established in Clarksville, making it an educational center in the region.
Today, Montgomery County is a thriving community with a diverse economy, vibrant arts and culture scene, and a strong military presence due to the nearby Fort Campbell Army base. The county's historical significance remains evident in its many historic sites and landmarks, preserving its past and serving as a reminder of the rich history that shaped the area.
Montgomery County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Montgomery County, Tennessee.
- 1796 - Montgomery County was established on December 17 as part of the State of Tennessee.
- 1797 - The town of Clarksville was founded as the county seat.
- 1825 - The county's population reached 7,657 residents.
- 1861-1865 - Montgomery County, like many areas in Tennessee, was heavily impacted by the American Civil War.
- 1890 - Montgomery County's population grew to 30,126.
- 1926 - Austin Peay State Teachers College (now Austin Peay State University) was established in Clarksville.
- 1950s-1960s - Montgomery County experienced significant population growth due to the establishment of Fort Campbell military base.
- 1978 - Clarksville-Montgomery County Public Library opened its doors.
- 1980 - The county's population reached 98,371.
- 1999 - The county celebrated its bicentennial anniversary.
- 2021 - Montgomery County continues to grow and develop, with a population of over 208,000 residents.