Waynesboro Cumberland Presbyterian Church

Historical marker location:
110 North High Street, Waynesboro, Tennessee
( Marker is at the intersection of North High Street (Tennessee Route 13) and Water Street, on the right when traveling north on North High Street.)

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The Great Train Robbery of 1866, one of the most famous train robberies in American history, took place in Tennessee. A group of Confederate veterans stole $90,000 from a train traveling from Nashville to Chattanooga.
Wayne County, Tennessee, located in the southern part of the state, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Shawnee. These tribes lived off the land and established settlements along the Tennessee River and its tributaries.

European settlers began to arrive in the late 18th century, attracted by the fertile land and abundant natural resources. Wayne County was officially formed in 1817 and named after General Anthony Wayne, a renowned Revolutionary War hero. The county quickly grew as more settlers moved in, establishing farms and businesses.

During the early 19th century, Wayne County became a key transportation hub, with a network of steamboat ports and wagon roads. The Tennessee River served as a vital lifeline for trade and commerce, allowing goods to be transported to other parts of the state and beyond. The county's strategic location also made it an important stop along the Natchez Trace, a historic trail connecting Nashville to the Mississippi River.

The Civil War brought significant hardships to Wayne County, as it did to many parts of the country. The area was heavily contested by Union and Confederate forces, leading to battles and skirmishes that took a toll on the local population. After the war, Wayne County slowly rebuilt its economy and infrastructure, relying on agriculture and logging industries.

Today, Wayne County thrives as a rural community known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore the county's rich history through its numerous historic sites and museums, such as the Wayne County Historical Society Museum. The county continues to cherish its heritage while embracing modern developments in agriculture and tourism, making it a unique destination in Tennessee.

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

  • 1817 - Wayne County is established on November 24, with Clifton as the county seat.
  • 1830 - The town of Waynesboro is established and becomes the new county seat.
  • 1861-1865 - Wayne County, like much of Tennessee, is heavily impacted by the American Civil War.
  • 1887 - The Tennessee Central Railroad is completed, connecting Waynesboro to other cities in Tennessee.
  • 1916 - The Old Stone Depot, which served as the Wayne County courthouse, is destroyed by fire.
  • 1917 - The new Wayne County courthouse is completed and still stands in Waynesboro today.
  • 1938 - The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) is established and begins work in Wayne County, bringing electricity and economic opportunities.
  • 1988 - The Tennessee Fitness Spa, a weight loss and fitness camp, opens in Waynesboro.
  • 2010 - Wayne County celebrates its 193rd anniversary.