Michelle Willard, The Murfreesboro Post, September 8, 2008
Living history events planned for October
As Rutherford County prepares to celebrate its 205th birthday in October, the Heritage Partnership of Rutherford County gears up for 2008 Rutherford County Month.
“Rutherford County Month is a working example of how we can create a unique sense of place and promote our heritage while showcasing adaptive reuse, complimenting quality of life, community stability and economic development,” organizer Denise Carlton said.
As the official sponsor of Rutherford County Month, the Heritage Partnership wants to focus the community’s attention on things uniquely Rutherford to celebrate the community’s history, Carlton said.
“Many changes have occurred to our county, both in size and usage since the original borders were laid out,” Carlton said. “October’s countywide, month-long focus is not limited to heritage or a specific period in time. Rutherford County has many times in history, and many individuals of significance to recognize.”
The Heritage Partnership will recognize one particular period of Rutherford County and Murfreesboro history during the Rutherford County Month Celebration Ceremony from 4:30-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at the Historic Courthouse.
From 1818-1826, Murfreesboro served as state capital before the General Assembly moved to Nashville, but it wasn’t until 1843 that Nashville officially became the capital of Tennessee. Legislative sessions were held in an early courthouse building until a fire destroyed it, moving the General Assembly to the Presbyterian Church on Vine Street.
In honor of the 205th anniversary of the county’s founding and brief term as the state capital, the evening will tie the historic atmosphere to the organization’s theme “Individuals in History.”
Actors and “mystery guests” significant to Rutherford County history will roam the Square portraying members of the legislature during this period during the celebration.
Visitors can also walk the Square and visit the many unique businesses and restaurants in the historic buildings of the area.
The Heritage Center, located on West Lytle Street, will be opened during the celebration for exhibit tours and maps for a self-guided walking tour or arrange for a guided tour with courthouse history.
To see what other unique and significant county attractions are holding events during Rutherford County Month check out the Top 10.
The Heritage Partnership of Rutherford County has a mission to educate, advocate and ensure the preservation of our local culture and history.
The Heritage Partnership started the annual celebration in October 2007 with the rededication of the Griffith Rutherford monument, a Revolutionary General for which the county was named.
More information about Rutherford County Month and The Heritage Partnership of Rutherford County can be found at www.heritagepartnership.org.