History of Bedford County, Tennessee
Bedford County, Tennessee, is a region rich in history, located in the heart of the state. Established in 1807, the county has played a significant role in both the American Civil War and the economic development of Tennessee. Known for its agricultural economy, Bedford County was once a center of tobacco production and has since expanded to other industries, including manufacturing and services. Its vibrant history includes notable figures, military engagements, and cultural milestones. Today, Bedford County is a place where historical landmarks and modern development coexist, making it a fascinating region for both residents and visitors.
Origins of Bedford County
Early Inhabitants and Native American Presence
Before European settlers arrived in what is now Bedford County, the region was inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Creek. These tribes lived in the fertile Tennessee Valley and relied on the natural resources for hunting, fishing, and agriculture. The presence of the Tennessee River and its tributaries made the area rich in game and provided abundant fishing grounds. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was used as a hunting ground and settlement site for thousands of years before European contact.
The first European exploration of the Tennessee region occurred in the late 17th century, with the French and Spanish sending explorers into the area. However, it wasn’t until the late 18th century that settlers began to move into the region in earnest. Following the American Revolution, settlers from Virginia, North Carolina, and other states began pushing westward into Tennessee, including the land that would become Bedford County.
Formation of Bedford County
Bedford County was officially established in 1807 from parts of Rutherford and Williamson counties. It was named after the Duke of Bedford, a British nobleman. Originally, the area was inhabited by pioneers who cleared the land for farming, creating small communities and settlements. The fertile soil of the region made it an ideal location for agricultural endeavors, particularly tobacco cultivation.
The county seat, Shelbyville, was incorporated in 1810 and became an important center of trade and commerce for the area. Its strategic location along the Duck River made it a key transportation hub, facilitating the movement of goods and services. In the early 19th century, Shelbyville’s proximity to Nashville helped it grow into a prosperous town, with a mix of farmers, tradesmen, and merchants.
Expansion and Economic Development
As the 19th century progressed, Bedford County continued to thrive. The economy remained centered around agriculture, particularly tobacco, cotton, and corn. By the mid-1800s, the county had developed a thriving farming community. In addition to its agricultural roots, the county became known for its role in the growing transportation industry. The construction of roads, railroads, and canals helped connect the area to other parts of Tennessee and the nation.
The arrival of the railroad in the 1850s brought further economic development to the region. It allowed for easier transportation of agricultural goods, especially tobacco, which was the county’s primary cash crop. Railroads helped connect Shelbyville and Bedford County to larger markets in Nashville and beyond, contributing to the growth of the local economy.
Key Historical Events in Bedford County
The Civil War Era
Bedford County played a significant role during the American Civil War. Located in Middle Tennessee, it was in a strategic position and saw many skirmishes and battles. One of the most notable events was the Battle of Shelbyville, which occurred in 1863. As the Union and Confederate forces clashed in the region, Bedford County became a focal point in the conflict.
Shelbyville, like many towns in the South, was heavily affected by the war. Confederate sympathizers controlled much of the area, while Union forces sought to maintain a presence in the region. The Battle of Shelbyville was one of several military engagements in Bedford County, and although it was a Confederate victory, the war had a lasting impact on the region. The local economy was disrupted, and much of the area’s infrastructure was damaged or destroyed during the conflict.
Post-Civil War and Reconstruction
After the Civil War, Bedford County faced the challenges of rebuilding. Like many Southern counties, the region struggled with economic hardship, especially in the wake of the destruction of agricultural infrastructure and the abolition of slavery. The county had to adjust to a new economic reality, with many former slaves becoming sharecroppers on the plantations that once employed them.
During the Reconstruction period, Bedford County saw an influx of Northern investors, as well as the continued expansion of the railroad and other transportation networks. Over time, the county began to recover, and its economy shifted away from solely agricultural pursuits. New industries, such as manufacturing and trade, began to take root in the area.
The Rise of the Tobacco Industry
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, Bedford County became known as a center for tobacco production. Tobacco farming was a dominant industry, and Shelbyville, the county seat, became a center for processing and distribution. The county’s fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for growing high-quality tobacco.
Tobacco barns became a common sight in the area, and many families relied on tobacco farming as their primary source of income. As the industry grew, so did the need for labor. African American sharecroppers, many of whom had been freed after the Civil War, worked in the tobacco fields, while other local residents worked in processing plants and tobacco-related industries.
The 20th Century and Industrial Growth
In the early 20th century, Bedford County’s economy continued to evolve. As agriculture remained an important industry, the region also began to diversify into other sectors, including textiles, manufacturing, and retail. The rise of the automotive industry in the mid-1900s brought new opportunities to the area, and Shelbyville became home to several factories producing goods such as clothing and industrial parts.
The population of Bedford County also grew steadily during the 20th century. By the 1950s and 1960s, the county had established itself as a mix of rural farmland and growing industrial areas. The town of Shelbyville, in particular, expanded as a regional center for commerce, education, and healthcare.
Historical Sites in Bedford County
The National Corvette Museum
Overview:
While not directly within Bedford County, the National Corvette Museum in nearby Bowling Green, Kentucky, is an important historical site for those interested in the region’s connection to the automobile industry. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the Chevrolet Corvette, one of America’s most iconic sports cars. The museum showcases exhibits on the history of Corvette production, racing, and its place in popular culture.
Location:
National Corvette Museum, 350 Corvette Dr, Bowling Green, KY 42101
Ticket Price:
Adults: $10, Children (6-12): $5, Children under 6: Free
Parking Information:
Free parking available at the museum.
The Shelbyville Historic District
Overview:
The Shelbyville Historic District offers a glimpse into the architectural and cultural history of Bedford County. The district features several preserved buildings from the 19th century, including homes, churches, and public buildings. It serves as a reminder of the county’s growth and prosperity during the 19th century.
Location:
Downtown Shelbyville, TN 37160
Ticket Price:
Free
Parking Information:
Street parking is available in the downtown area.
Bedford County Courthouse
Overview:
The Bedford County Courthouse, located in Shelbyville, is an important historical landmark in the county. Built in the early 20th century, the courthouse has served as the center of legal and government affairs for over a century. The building features classical architectural elements and stands as a symbol of the county’s enduring commitment to justice and governance.
Location:
Bedford County Courthouse, 104 N Spring St, Shelbyville, TN 37160
Ticket Price:
Free (Public access to the grounds)
Parking Information:
Parking is available near the courthouse square.
Lynchburg, Tennessee (Jack Daniel’s Distillery)
Overview:
Lynchburg, located just south of Bedford County, is home to the famous Jack Daniel’s Distillery. Established in 1866, this distillery is one of the oldest and most well-known whiskey producers in the United States. The Jack Daniel’s brand is an integral part of Tennessee’s history, and the distillery offers tours that provide insight into the history of the brand and the region’s whiskey-making tradition.
Location:
Jack Daniel’s Distillery, 280 Lynchburg Hwy, Lynchburg, TN 37352
Ticket Price:
Tours start at $15 per person
Parking Information:
Parking is available at the distillery.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Bedford County lies in Middle Tennessee, characterized by rolling hills, fertile valleys, and a temperate climate. The county is part of the Central Basin of Tennessee, with the Duck River flowing through its heart. This region is known for its rich soil, which has made it an important area for agriculture, particularly tobacco farming. The climate is classified as humid subtropical, with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, making it suitable for various agricultural crops.
- Year Founded: 1807
- County Seat: Shelbyville
- Population: Approximately 52,000 (as of 2023)
- Population Density: 78 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Shelbyville, Bell Buckle, Wartrace
- Major Highways: Interstate 24, U.S. Route 231, State Highway 82
- Adjacent Counties: Coffee, Franklin, Lincoln, Marshall, Moore, Rutherford
