National Register Listing

Washington Avenue and Florida Avenue Historic District

Located along Washington And Florida Aves., bet. 3rd and 5th Sts., Union City, TN
Local significance of the district:
Community Planning And Development; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2001.

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.

Audiobooks about the history of Tennessee.
The first known protest against British taxation in America occurred in Tennessee in 1768, more than a decade before the famous Boston Tea Party. A group of settlers in the Watauga Association signed a petition protesting the British government's attempt to impose taxes on them without their consent.
Tennessee random facts
Obion County, Tennessee, has a rich history that dates back to the prehistoric Native American inhabitants of the region. The first known tribes to settle in the area were the Chickasaw and Cherokee. European exploration and settlement began in the late 18th century when hunters and traders arrived from Virginia and North Carolina. However, the area remained largely rural and sparsely populated until the early 19th century.

The county was officially established in 1823, named after the Obion River, which flows through it. The county seat, Union City, was founded in 1854 and quickly became a thriving center for trade, commerce, and transportation. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further stimulated economic growth in the area, allowing for the expansion of agriculture, industry, and commerce.

During the Civil War, Obion County was divided in its loyalties. Many residents supported the Confederacy, while others remained loyal to the Union. The county experienced several skirmishes and battles, including the Battle of Troy in March 1862. Following the war, the agricultural economy was heavily impacted, but the county recovered and saw a surge in industrial development in the early 20th century.

Today, Obion County is largely rural, with agriculture remaining a significant part of the local economy. The county is known for its rich farmland and is a major producer of cotton, soybeans, and corn. Industrial and manufacturing sectors have also grown, contributing to the county's economic diversity. With its historical roots, natural beauty, and vibrant community, Obion County continues to evolve while honoring its past.

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

  • 1823: Obion County is established by the Tennessee General Assembly.
  • 1834: Troy is founded as the county seat.
  • 1841: The Mississippi River flood causes significant damage in the county.
  • 1861-1865: Obion County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1872: City of Union City is incorporated.
  • 1903: Reelfoot Lake is created by the infamous New Madrid earthquake.
  • 1925: Discovery of oil and gas leads to economic growth in the area.
  • 1969: The county experiences severe flooding due to heavy rains.
  • 1997: Obion County Fairgrounds is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • 2002: The Discovery Park of America opens in Union City, promoting education and tourism.