Affair at Travisville

Historical marker location:
Travisville, Tennessee
( Marker is at the intersection of Caney Creek Road and Crabtree Road, on the right when traveling south on Caney Creek Road.)

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The city of Memphis, Tennessee, was the site of the assassination of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on April 4, 1968. The Lorraine Motel, where Dr. King was staying, is now the National Civil Rights Museum.
Pickett County, Tennessee, located in the northeastern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history that traces back to the early 19th century. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Creek, and Shawnee, who utilized the region's vast natural resources for hunting and fishing.

In 1879, Pickett County was officially established, named after the prominent Pickett family of Revolutionary War fame. The county's first courthouse, known as the Old Sam T. Johnson Courthouse, was constructed in 1925 and stands as a historical landmark to this day.

Throughout the years, Pickett County experienced significant agricultural growth, with farming becoming the primary occupation for its residents. The region's rich soil and mild climate allowed for the cultivation of crops such as tobacco, corn, and wheat.

In addition to agriculture, Pickett County also played a crucial role in the development of the timber industry. The dense forests of the area provided ample resources for logging, which fueled the local economy and contributed to the growth of neighboring towns.

Today, Pickett County continues to thrive as a close-knit community, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The preservation of its historical sites, coupled with its commitment to sustainable development, ensures that Pickett County's rich heritage will be enjoyed by future generations.

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

  • Pickett County was established on November 14, 1879.
  • The county was named after Governor Albert S. Pickett, a soldier and historian from Alabama.
  • The first county courthouse was built in 1879.
  • By the 1900s, logging became an important industry in the county.
  • In 1951, the Wolf River Dam was completed, creating Dale Hollow Lake and bringing tourism to the area.
  • In the 1970s, the county experienced a decline in population due to job losses in the logging industry.
  • In recent years, Pickett County has focused on revitalizing its economy through tourism and small businesses.
  • As of the 2020 census, the population of Pickett County was 5,048.