The Murfreesboro Post, October 29, 2012
Facades abound around the world, but none are as steadfast, substantial and stately as the historic Rutherford County Courthouse.
Against a soft blue sky, these fall days the courthouse is backlit by the brilliance of autumn light – crimson and amber stream across the majestic gold-tinged trees.
Communing with the surreal, almost artificial scene is the best antidote to the fury of 21st century life.
The passing of time is wonderfully crafted in the architecture of downtown.
Even as the city sprawls into Rutherford County, one can only imagine and dream of a another time when the town featured hand-hewn log structures, and block and fired brick.
As one experiences the distinctiveness of downtown, the centerpiece of cultural heritage emerge, where only two centuries ago settlers cut their way through heavily timbered forests, cane and grape vines.
Presently, narrow roads and trails have been replaced with a variety of unique shops and eateries, including an array of trendy boutiques, one-of-a-kind gifts and antiques shops, restaurants from the romantically cozy to the elegant with occasional sidewalk seating, gourmet coffee shops, art and photo galleries, and even an organic grocery store.
On Friday, Nov. 16, from 5 p.m. till 7 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 17, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., a dynamic walking tour featuring the history of downtown Murfreesboro will be provided by the Heritage Center of Rutherford County and Shacklett’s Photography, where participants will start their tours.
Featured on the tour will be murals with historic photos of each side of the Square. These photos are from the Shacklett Photography Southern Heritage and Community Image Collection from the Rutherford County Archives.
In the midst of hectic moments of this electronically driven age, tour participants can return to a quieter time through a virtual tour featuring unique stories and historic photographs.
Tour participants will have the opportunity to learn fascinating stories about downtown Murfreesboro, including the man in a derby hat, stiff collar and black hat who could not stop a motorcycle. Attendees will also hear about the Po Boy restaurant with its loud speakers in the belfry of the old Murfreesboro City Hall, and of course, the tragic story of the “Human Fly.”
As attendees reminisce, this nostalgic event will launch and enhance the holiday downtown Murfreesboro experience.
Since 2006, the Heritage Center has provided visitors and locals alike with a dynamic variety of walking tours to further enrich their enjoyment of the county seat of Rutherford County.
These fun-filled tours also introduce visitor to some of the city’s historic and cultural insights, and much, much more.
Come take a tour for a pleasurable, unique way to experience the fantastic history on the Square.