The clanging sound of iron being forged, the smell of campfires, and the bleating of sheep aren’t necessary senses modern folks are used to experiencing. These, however, were commonplace in the 1800s throughout the land of Tennessee. Farmers were busy caring for animals, blacksmiths were pounding out metals in hot workshops, and homemakers were cooking up stews to feed large families in hanging pots over roaring fires. If you wanted to get a glimpse into this era in Tennessee history, then step back in time in Granville.
Granville is a historic town that sits right on the banks of the Cumberland River in middle Tennessee.
You can easily describe this town as the "Mayberry" of Tennessee; and in fact, they certainly do. This charming little town was first settled in 1799 by a group from Granville County in North Carolina, which inspired its name. Situated along the river is beautiful enough, but there is also an undeniable charm about this town all its own.
The hub of the town is an old general store called T.B. Sutton which is a must-visit in Granville.
Back in the day, these little general stores were vital for getting goods and connecting with others. Today, not much has changed: you can peruse antique wares, the well-worn floorboards creaking floorboards as you wander the aisles. In addition to goods, you can also order up an old-fashioned, home-cooked meal... and if you're lucky, hear a little Bluegrass while you eat! This is also a great "first stop" on your trip to the town because employees will help you plan your day and they even offer extensive tours of the museums and the Pioneer Village.
The Pioneer Village is where you will step back in time and experience what life was like during the early settlement of our state.
Different buildings showcase what living in the 1800s really looked like. Walk through a one-room cabin to see where families lived, or watch quilts and baskets being made just like they did over 100 years ago.
Most of the town comes together to make this experience a truly immersive one.
People from all walks of life step into the village and leave behind their modern counterparts to become an expert in pioneering ways. Learn what it was like to forge tools with the blacksmith or partake in a cooked meal in a Dutch oven. These volunteers have become well-versed in a lost art form that after all these years is still awe-inspiring.
Though decidedly old fashioned, the town keeps things "fresh" by highlighting a different historical era every year, ensuring that year will be a completely new experience. They also host loads of events throughout the year to showcase the chosen theme.
Of course, there are many museums in this small Tennessee town.
If you love antique cars, head over to the Car Museum to admire the vintage cars and see a garage decorated just like it would have been while those cars ruled the road. Fancy some classic television shows? The Mayberry - I Love Lucy Museum is a must-see. Reminisce to a bygone era of rural small-town America with relics that will transport you back to the heyday of these popular TV shows. There are several other museums in Granville, too, like the Farm to Table Museum, The Granville Museum, The Sutton Homestead, The Granville Whiskey Decanter Museum, and the Tennessee Quilt and Textile Museum. There is so much to see and do, in fact, you ought to pack up and stay the weekend!
Granville is a historic town in Tennessee that ranks high on my list... what about you? With a whole community gathering around to transport this little town to a true historic experience, there's a lot to love about Granville! If you want to slow down the pace of life and take a trip to this charming little river town, then make sure you also visit the Granville website for all of the latest information, including must-see festivals and events.
For more incredible small towns in Tennessee, check out this list that gives you one small town to visit for every month of the year!
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