Lawrenceburg, TN Road Trips

It is believed to actually have been the site of "Chicasa", the encampment Hernando de Soto and his party made in the winter of 1540-1541. Probably more widely known though is that it is where David "Davy" Crockett spent some years of his life, operating a mill and engaging in civil affairs. Not only that, but Lawrenceburg claims to be the birthplace of Southern Gospel Music, with its own museum to commemorate that.

1 David Crockett State Park, 1400 W Gaines St, ☏ +1 931 762-9408. Daily 8AM-4:30PM. Davy Crockett settled along the banks of Shoal Creek here in 1817 and constructed a powder mill/grist mill and distillery, which lasted until a flood in 1821 wiped it all away and prompted Davy to leave town. The state park includes a museum about him and replica of his cabin, and additionally, an Olympic-sized pool, scenic creekside natural areas, and campgrounds. (updated Sep 2021) 2 James D Vaughan Museum, 31 Public Square, ☏ +1 931 762-8991. A tribute to Lawrenceburg's Southern Gospel acclaim. (updated Sep 2021) 3 Amish Welcome Center, 3943 US-43, Ethridge (about 8 miles north of Lawrenceburg), ☏ +1 931-829-2433. This Amish community allows visitors to glimpse and learn about their lifestyle through markets and daily affairs. Giles County Trail of Tears Memorial and Interpretive Center, Pleasant Run Park, 220 Stadium Street, Pulaski, ☏ +1 931-424-4044. Call for appointment. Part of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail. Exhibits on the grounds of the memorial and inside the Trail of Tears Interpretive Center give an excellent overview of the Trail of Tears in general and the Benge and Bell Routes in particular. (updated Oct 2021) 4 Meriwether Lewis National Monument or Grinder's Stand, east of Hohenwald and near mile marker 389 along the Natchez Trace, grave and reconstructed inn where it is believed Meriwether Lewis took his life.

1 Richland Inn of Lawrenceburg, 2125 N Locust Ave, ☏ +1 931 762-0061. Quaint and complimentary breakfast included. (updated Sep 2021)