Decatur County, TN FAQs
What is the history of Decatur County, TN and what are its notable landmarks?
Decatur County, located in southwestern Tennessee, has a rich history that dates back to its early settlement in the 1820s. Here’s an overview of the history of Decatur County and some notable landmarks in the area:
History of Decatur County, TN:
- Native American History: Decatur County was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Chickasaw and Cherokee, who inhabited the area for centuries before European settlement.
- Early Settlement: European settlers began arriving in Decatur County in the early 1800s, primarily from North Carolina, Virginia, and Kentucky. The county was officially established in 1845, and its county seat, Decaturville, was named after Commodore Stephen Decatur, a hero of the War of 1812.
- Civil War: During the Civil War, Decatur County was divided in its loyalties, with some residents supporting the Union and others supporting the Confederacy. The Battle of Perryville, a skirmish between Union and Confederate forces, took place in Decatur County in 1864.
- Agriculture and Industry: Decatur County has a history of agriculture, with cotton, corn, and timber being important industries in the area. Sawmills, gristmills, and other small-scale industries also played a role in the county’s economy.
Notable Landmarks in Decatur County, TN:
- Decatur County Courthouse
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- located in Decaturville, is a notable landmark in the area
- built in 1925
- listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is known for its distinctive neoclassical architecture
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- Parsons Depot Museum
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- located in the town of Parsons
- a historic train depot that has been converted into a museum
- houses exhibits and artifacts that showcase the history and culture of Decatur County
- Tennessee River
- a notable natural landmark in the area
- the river offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities
- Natchez Trace State Park
- a large state park located in Decatur County, known for its scenic beauty, camping, hiking, and equestrian trails
- has a lake for fishing and boating
- Wildlife Management Areas
- home to several wildlife management areas, including Perryville Marina and Wildlife Management Area and Beech River Wildlife Management Area, which offer opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
What are the recreational activities available in Decatur County, TN?
Decatur County, TN, offers a variety of recreational activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. Some of the popular recreational activities available in Decatur County include:
- Boating and Fishing
- Tennessee River
- Natchez Trace State Park
- Pin Oak Lake
- Cub Lake
- Maple Creek Lake
These lakes are also known for fishing, with a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, crappie, and more, providing opportunities for anglers.
- Camping
- Natchez Trace State Park
- offers camping facilities with hundreds of campsites, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins
- has various campgrounds with amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, hiking trails, and more, providing opportunities for camping enthusiasts to enjoy the natural beauty of the park
- Natchez Trace State Park
- Hiking and Nature Trails
- Natchez Trace State Park has numerous hiking and nature trails that wind through its forests, meadows, and along the lakeshores, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing
- has over 40 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Cub Creek Trail, which leads to a waterfall, and the Chickasaw Trail, which showcases the park’s diverse ecosystems
- Hunting
- Perryville Marina
- Wildlife Management Area
- Beech River Wildlife Management Area
- Golfing
- Tennessee River Golf Club
- located in Decaturville
- is an 18-hole golf course that offers recreational opportunities for golf enthusiasts
- features scenic views of the Tennessee River and offers challenges for golfers of all skill levels
- Tennessee River Golf Club
- Wildlife Viewing
- Natchez Trace State Park and wildlife management areas
- provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can spot various wildlife species, including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and other native animals, while exploring the parks and natural areas
- Natchez Trace State Park and wildlife management areas
- Picnicking and Camping
What are the recreational activities available in Decatur County, TN?
Decatur County, TN, offers a variety of recreational activities for residents and visitors to enjoy. Some of the popular recreational activities available in Decatur County include:
- Boating and Fishing
- Tennessee River
- Natchez Trace State Park
- Pin Oak Lake
- Cub Lake
- Maple Creek Lake
These lakes are also known for fishing, with a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, crappie, and more, providing opportunities for anglers.
- Camping
- Natchez Trace State Park
- offers camping facilities with hundreds of campsites, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins
- has various campgrounds with amenities such as picnic areas, playgrounds, hiking trails, and more, providing opportunities for camping enthusiasts to enjoy the natural beauty of the park
- Natchez Trace State Park
- Hiking and Nature Trails
- Natchez Trace State Park has numerous hiking and nature trails that wind through its forests, meadows, and along the lakeshores, offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife viewing
- has over 40 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Cub Creek Trail, which leads to a waterfall, and the Chickasaw Trail, which showcases the park’s diverse ecosystems
- Hunting
- Perryville Marina
- Wildlife Management Area
- Beech River Wildlife Management Area
- Golfing
- Tennessee River Golf Club
- located in Decaturville
- is an 18-hole golf course that offers recreational opportunities for golf enthusiasts
- features scenic views of the Tennessee River and offers challenges for golfers of all skill levels
- Tennessee River Golf Club
- Wildlife Viewing
- Natchez Trace State Park and wildlife management areas
- provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can spot various wildlife species, including deer, turkey, waterfowl, and other native animals, while exploring the parks and natural areas
- Natchez Trace State Park and wildlife management areas
- Picnicking and Camping