Sinkholes in Cheatham County, TN | Tennessee Sinkholes

• situated in the Middle Tennessee region
• named after Edward S. Cheatham, a prominent lawyer, legislator, and speaker of the Tennessee House of Representatives in the 19th century

Early History

• Cheatham County was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Shawnee. 
• European explorers, such as Hernando de Soto, were the first known non-indigenous people to enter the area in the 16th century. However, the region remained largely unsettled until the late 18th century.

Settlement and Formation

• In the late 18th century, European settlers began to migrate into the area that is now Cheatham County. 
• first known settlement was established in 1780 by a group of families led by James Robertson, who is known as the “Father of Middle Tennessee.” 
• The area was initially part of Davidson County, but as the population grew, the need for a separate county arose. 
• Cheatham County was officially established on February 28, 1856, when it was carved out of parts of Davidson, Dickson, and Montgomery counties.

Civil War and Reconstruction

• Cheatham County, like many parts of Tennessee, experienced conflict and division. While the county officially remained loyal to the Union, there were skirmishes and raids by Confederate forces, as well as instances of guerrilla warfare
• during the Reconstruction era, the county went through a period of social and economic upheaval as it grappled with the aftermath of the war and the end of slavery.

Today, Cheatham County is a mix of rural and suburban areas, with a diverse population and a variety of economic activities. It remains an important part of the Middle Tennessee region with a rich history that is preserved through local museums, historical societies, and landmarks.

What are its notable landmarks in Cheatham County, TN?

• Cheatham Lock and Dam
  • Located on the Cumberland River near Ashland City, Cheatham Lock and Dam is a hydroelectric dam that was completed in the 1950s as part of the Tennessee Valley Authority’s efforts for flood control and hydroelectric power generation. 
  • a significant landmark in Cheatham County, providing recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
• Bell Witch Cave
  • Located in Adams, TN, the Bell Witch Cave is a historic site associated with the famous Bell Witch legend, which is a well-known American folk tale. 
  • said to be the site of paranormal activity that occurred in the early 19th century, involving the Bell family who claimed to be tormented by a malevolent spirit known as the Bell Witch. 
  • Today, it is a popular tourist destination for those interested in paranormal folklore and history.
• Harpeth River State Park
  • Harpeth River State Park is a scenic park that spans across Cheatham, Davidson, and Williamson counties, with a portion of it located in Cheatham County. 
  • known for its beautiful Harpeth River, which offers opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and hiking along its banks. 
  • features several historic sites, including the remnants of a 200-year-old iron forge, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
• Ashland City Masonic Lodge No. 604
  • Located in Ashland City, the Ashland City Masonic Lodge No. 604
  • a historic building that dates back to the late 19th century 
  • an example of Classical Revival architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places
  • serves as a prominent landmark in Ashland City and is a reminder of the county’s fraternal and social history.
• Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail
  • a multi-use recreational trail that spans across Cheatham County, running along the Cumberland River
  • offers scenic views of the river, and provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding
  • a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and provides a way to explore the natural beauty of Cheatham County