Murfreesboro, Tennessee is a city with a rich history. From the Civil War to the founding of Middle Tennessee State University, there are many stories to be told in this city. If you’re a history buff, or just looking for something different to do, take a tour of some of these historic buildings!
Oakland Mansion- An elegant mansion caught in the crossfire of the Civil War – This nationally registered, historic house museum was built in 1815 by Dr. James Maney and Sally Murfree Maney. The house is an excellent example of antebellum architecture and hosts many events throughout the year.
Historic Courthouse- The Historic Courthouse stands in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. It was built in 1859 and is one of only six remaining Tennessee courthouses from before the Civil War. Today, the courthouse is open to the public for tours.
Kirksey Old Main at MTSU- Kirksey Old Main is the oldest building on the Middle Tennessee State University campus. It was built in 1911 and served as the main academic building until 1957. Today, Kirksey Old Main houses administrative offices and classrooms.
Cannonsburgh Village- Historic Cannonsburgh Village represents approximately 100 years of early Tennessee life from the 1830s to the 1930s. The village includes restored log cabins, a blacksmith shop, gristmill, schoolhouse, farmhouse, and church. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the village seven days a week.
Sam Davis Home and Museum- The Sam Davis Home to keep alive the story of Sam Davis during, and after the Civil War. The home was built in 1810 and was occupied by three generations of Davis family members. Today, visitors can take a tour of the home and learn about Sam Davis, who was nicknamed the “Boy Hero of the Confederacy.”
Bradley Academy Museum- Bradley Academy has the distinction of being Rutherford County’s first school. The school was founded in 1809 by Revolutionary War veteran Colonel Hardy Murfree. Bradley Academy served as a primary and secondary school until 1888 when it became a high school. In 1913, Bradley Academy merged with Central High School to form what is now known as Central Magnet School. The Bradley Academy Museum is open to the public for tours by appointment only.
Murfreesboro’s history comes alive when you visit these historic buildings! Take a step back in time as you tour Oakland Mansion, Cannonsburgh Village, or Kirksey Old Main at MTSU. Or learn about some of Murfreesboro’s most famous residents at the Sam Davis Home or Bradley Academy Museum. No matter which historic building you choose to visit, you’re sure to have an enlightening experience!
