National Register Listing

Fite-Williams-Ligon House

a.k.a. Williams, J.W., House;Ligon, Letcher Alexander, House; Fite, John A., House

212 Fite Ave. W, Carthage, TN
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2003.

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.

architecture houses residential buildings
The world's largest freshwater aquarium is located in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The Tennessee Aquarium is home to more than 12,000 animals from over 800 species.
Tennessee random facts
Smith County, Tennessee has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The county was named after Daniel Smith, a prominent surveyor and one of the founders of Tennessee. It was officially established in 1799, after being carved out of Sumner County. The first settlers were primarily Scotch-Irish and German immigrants.

During the early years, the county grew steadily with the construction of roads, mills, and churches. The fertile land attracted farmers who cultivated crops such as tobacco, corn, and wheat. In addition to agriculture, the county also saw the development of various industries like iron furnaces, distilleries, and tanneries.

The Civil War had a significant impact on Smith County, as it did on many parts of the southern United States. The county was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Union and others the Confederacy. Several important battles took place in or near Smith County, leading to widespread destruction and disruption.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Smith County experienced growth and progress in various areas. The construction of railroads improved transportation and allowed for the export of agricultural products. Education also became a priority, and schools were established throughout the county. Today, Smith County remains a predominantly rural area, known for its beautiful landscapes, tight-knit communities, and its commitment to preserving its rich historical heritage.

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

  • 1799 - Smith County established as a county in Tennessee
  • 1802 - Carthage becomes the county seat of Smith County
  • 1813 - Smith County residents participate in the Creek War
  • 1836 - The Carthage Courthouse is destroyed by fire
  • 1842 - A new courthouse is built in Carthage
  • 1861-1865 - Smith County residents fight in the American Civil War
  • 1890 - The Carthage Courthouse is once again destroyed by fire
  • 1894 - The current Carthage Courthouse is constructed
  • 1901 - The Dixon Springs Agricultural School is founded
  • 1930s - The Great Depression impacts Smith County
  • 1942-1946 - Smith County residents serve in World War II
  • 1950s - The construction of Cordell Hull Dam and Reservoir brings economic growth to the county
  • 1970s - The Cumberland River Hospital is established
  • 1996 - Smith County celebrates its bicentennial