Shelbyville Times-Gazette: News : History and heritage

History and heritage

For whom the bell tolls... (01/31/12)
The recently-restored clock in the Bedford County Courthouse clocktower rings a little more softly this week, in what officials hope will be a compromise agreeable to residents living around the Shelbyville square. Macey Agee had appeared Jan. 17 before Bedford County Board of Commissioners' courthouse and county property committee to complain that the newly-restored bell was too loud overnight and asked that it be prevented from ringing between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m...

Project gives Civil War items new life (01/22/12)
TULLAHOMA -- Every family has a history, and as Tennessee observes the 150th anniversary of the Civil War over the nest few years, state archivists want to take a peek at what you have. A team of experts from the Tennessee State Library and Archives were busy at Tullahoma's city hall Thursday examining and digitizing rare artifacts that have been hidden away in the private collections of local residents...

Newspaper brings 1862 back to life (01/03/12)
Where are the rebels in Tennessee and what are they doing? If you read the front page of the Dec. 7, 1862 edition of the New York Herald during the Civil War, you would have learned that thousands of Confederate troops were massing south of a small town called Shelbyville...

Fire destroys historic Unionville spot (12/29/11)
A piece of Unionville history was destroyed Wednesday morning as a house on Unionville-Chapel Hill Road burned. "My mother moved into the house in 1939," Thomas King said as he watched the house burn. "She (Claytie King) ran the telephone office from the house. I bought the house from the telephone company in the 1950s."...

Decision delayed on bridge name request (12/22/11)
Bedford County Board of Commissioners' rules and legislative committee deferred action Tuesday night on a request to name a bridge on State Route 64 West (Lewisburg Highway) in honor of Pfc. Larry W. Neill, who was killed in action in Vietnam in 1969...

Remembering Mai D.: Community leader leaves a legacy (12/15/11)
Bedford County lost a true leader with the passing of Mai D. Hendricks, who died Nov. 28 surrounded by family in Columbia, Mo. In most recent years, Hendricks is known for her work in establishing the Gilliland House, a local resource center that's listed on the National Registry of Historic Places...

Webb students ride into 'orbit' (12/09/11)
Physician and former astronaut Rhea Seddon of Murfreesboro took Webb School students with her on a journey into Earth orbit on Thursday. Seddon, a veteran of three space shuttle missions, appeared as part of the school's Follin Speaker Series. With the help of video footage, she told the story of STS-40, a 1991 mission dedicated to research in life sciences during which she and her crewmates performed a series of experiments testing the effects of space travel on humans -- and on some of the shuttle's other passengers, several laboratory rats.. ...

Lisa's gift to Shelbyville (12/07/11)
In 1948, when Morton Renegar brought his bride Lisa back to Tennessee from her native Germany, he wondered how she would be received -- after all, World War II had ended just three years earlier. He needn't have worried; Lisa won people over, and within a few years was modeling clothes for two department stores owned by Jewish families...

Pearl Harbor heroes won't be forgotten (12/07/11)
PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii -- The Dec. 7, 1941, bombing of Pearl Harbor and those who lost their lives that day are being remembered today on the 70th anniversary of the Japanese attack that brought the U.S. into World War II. About 120 survivors joined Navy Secretary Ray Mabus, military leaders and civilians to observe a moment of silence in Pearl Harbor at 7:55 a.m. Hawaii time -- the moment the attack began seven decades ago...

11*11*11:11! (11/11/11)
The number 11 is brought to you today by two Bedford County students who share a birthday. Timothy Page, a student at Southside School, and Haylie Parker at Thomas Magnet, are each 11 years old today, on 11/11/11. Not only do the students get the day off from school (it's a system-wide staff development day), but there's a parade being held in their honor. At least that's what Timmy's dad has told him for years...

Celebrating freedom, and those who protect it (11/10/11)
At Southside Elementary, Delainey Green was dressed to show her support of veterans during a school program today. (T-G Photo by Tracy Simmons)

Parade, programs to salute veterans (11/09/11)
Friday, Nov. 11, is Veterans Day and the annual parade will be held 11 a.m. Friday along the normal parade route. The parade will begin at the intersection of Cannon Boulevard and Lane Parkway, proceeding south on Cannon to Holland, east on Holland to the square, north on Main to Madison and east on Madison to Celebration Drive...

Louvin featured in collection of New York Times obits (11/09/11)
Country music legend Charlie Louvin, a resident of Wartrace who died in January, is the subject of one of the obituaries included in "The New York Times: The Obits -- Annual 2012," a collection of notable obituaries from the Times published between August 2010 and July of this year...

TWH museum involves public in planning (11/04/11)
Wartrace will be having a "Night at the Museum" soon, but it's not the kind seen in the movies where exhibits come to life. Instead, the new home of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum is asking for the public's input as to how to tell their story...

Fragments of faith (10/25/11)
You can hold a fragment of history in your hands this week during Bible & Literature Missionary Foundation's 43rd annual Scripture Conference, which ends today. Morning sessions have been held at Faith Baptist Church, with evening sessions at Victory Baptist Church. It's part of a celebration honoring 400 years of the King James Version of the Bible...

Eagle spirit lives on (10/23/11)
Four members of the Central High School Class of 1938 gathered for a reunion recently to reminisce about those glorious days of their youth and to remember departed friends and classmates. When they and their 69 classmates graduated 73 years ago, they left to go to college or to work or to start families...

Champs finish 8th in state tourney (09/29/11)
For the first time in school history, the Cascade Champions competed in the A-AA state golf tournament, which was held at the Willow Brook Golf Club in Manchester on Tuesday and Wednesday. After the two-day tournament had concluded, the Champs finished eighth overall as a team with a combined score of 671...

Salutes to fallen firefighters ring out at academy (09/18/11)
Three times the bell rang -- a soft chime that drifted over the silent crowd at the Tennessee Fire Service and Codes Enforcement Academy late Saturday afternoon in Deason. The bell, they said, was calling two firefighters home, telling them their shift had ended, their duty was done...

Waving high (09/11/11)
The sun shines brightly on the American flag as a ceremony in remembrance of Sept. 11 begins Friday at Shelbyville Fire Department. (T-G Photo by David Melson)

Tragedy unremembered by those too young (09/09/11)
This year's class of fifth graders were either infants or not yet born on Sept. 11, 2001. We asked students at Thomas Magnet School to share their feelings about the events of that day, and to contemplate how they might feel if the events happened today. Excerpts from their essays are below...

September 11: Ten years later (09/09/11)
Mordicai Gerstein begins the "The Man Who Walked Between the Towers" this way, "Once there were two towers side by side. They were each a quarter of a mile high... The tallest buildings in New York City." The Caldecott Medal-winning children's picture book tells the true story of Philippe Petit, a man who walked between the twin towers of the World Trade Center on a tightrope in 1974...

Remembering 9/11: Ten Years Later (09/07/11)
This Sunday will mark the 10th anniversary of the attacks of Sept. 11, 2011. As Americans quietly remember, the Times-Gazette asked readers to reflect on their whereabouts of that morning. Readers were quick to respond and share their memories. No matter where folks were; school, work, at home caring for children, one thing that remains the same is that everyone remembers...

A history of love (07/24/11)
It's most often told as a story about history, and about a couple with a love of history. On this day, it's best recognized as a love story as well. Helen and Tim Marsh, known locally as avid historians, make their own mark on history this week with the celebration of their 70th wedding anniversary...

Hicks Family History (07/21/11)
My grandfather, James Franklin (Hix) Hicks was born May 19, 1889 in Shelbyville, TN. He died Dec. 21, 1936 in Jasper, Texas, when my father was 9 years old. Dad had a brother 12 years older, but he, too, passed away at an early age in 1951. My dad has no memories of any of his father's family and I am trying to locate any descendants that may still be living in the Shelbyville area, or any historian who may know something of his family. ...

150-year wait may be over for Mexican War veterans (07/20/11)
The bodies of 11 U.S. soldiers who fought in the Battle of Monterrey in 1846 have been recovered in Mexico, and Bedford County commissioners may join a Lipscomb University history professor in asking that they be brought back to Tennessee for burial at the Mexican War Monument in Gallatin...

100 years -- and still growing strong (07/19/11)
Bedford County's newest Century Farm was certified this week. With the addition of Rowesville Valley Farms, Bedford County now has 18 certified Century Farms. These will be recognized at the Bedford County Fair on Wednesday. The Tennessee Century Farms Program, administered by the MTSU Center for Historic Preservation, recognizes the dedication and contributions of families who have owned and farmed the same land for at least 100 years...

WW2 flight hero injured in wreck (07/07/11)
John Ross, the 92-year-old World War II pilot featured in a recent Times-Gazette story, is in an Orlando, Fla. hospital, recovering from injuries received in a automobile accident. "It was foggy and he missed a turn," said his friend, Ike Farrar of Flat Creek....

Bell Buckle celebrates Independence Day (07/05/11)
Organizers estimated approximately 1,500 people -- more than three times last year's number -- attended Bell Buckle's July 4 celebration on Saturday night.

Pieces of history to fill time capsules (06/14/11)
Time stands still for no man, but bits and pieces of it can be captured for a while. That's what one group of people is trying to do for Shelbyville. As part of last year's bicentennial celebration, two time capsules are being prepared. The metal-lined ceramic containers, donated by Henry Feldhaus, will be buried July 23 during the chili cookoff, a year after the 200th birthday of the town was celebrated...

Recovered memories (05/20/11)
Torn, muddied and ripped but still carrying lifetimes of memories, they landed across the landscape of southern and eastern Bedford County. Photos blown over 200 miles from homes in northwestern Alabama and east central Mississippi during the massive April 27 tornado outbreak fell from the sky several hours later over southeastern Middle Tennessee...

Heat's on for state chili championship (05/19/11)
Ch-ch-ch-changes... Ch-ili, ch-icken and ch-ocolate changes, that is. That's what you can look forward to at this year's Tennessee State Championship Chili Cookoff on the square in Shelbyville July 23. It's the fourth year the city has hosted the event -- which provides Tennessee's only entrants into the International Chili Society cookoff held in October...

Deer processing business denied rezoning request (05/11/11)
Bedford County Board of Commissioners voted down a rezoning request for a deer processing business; the property owner who requested the change said his particular project would have been an asset, but he understood neighbors' uncertainty over allowing industrial zoning in their neighborhood...

T-G storm photo collection gains notice (05/05/11)
The Times-Gazette's project of collecting photos which have fallen across Bedford County following the April 27 Alabama and Mississippi tornadoes was featured on two Nashville television newscasts Wednesday night. Cindy Cox and Sheree Floyd, who found photos at their Bedford County residences, were featured along with several Times-Gazette staff members on WKRN (Channel 2) and WTVF (Channel 5). Floyd said her husband, who mows yards, is finding more photos while working...

Little-known holiday gives taxpayers a break (04/14/11)
The deadline for filing federal income tax returns is Monday, April 18, this year, not the familiar date of April 15. Now, Tennessee has extended its deadline for state franchise and excise taxes this year to match the federal deadline. The reason for the postponement is a local holiday -- Emancipation Day -- celebrated in Washington, D.C. ...

Skull over 500 years old (03/31/11)
A human skull that was discovered last month turned out to be a lot older than expected -- with the remains to be repatriated to a Native American group. In late February, Sheriff's Detective Lt. Brian Farris was informed about the discovery of the skull inside a storage building on a vacant piece of property on Highway 82 East past Bell Buckle...

O say, can you sing? 'Star-Spangled Banner' is sometimes star-mangled (02/08/11)
Recording artist Christina Aguilera has taken criticism for flubbing the words of the National Anthem before Sunday's Super Bowl, but Register of Deeds Johnny Reed, who is also a vocalist, can sympathize. Reed has sung "The Star-Spangled Banner" at the Celebration, the Spring Fun Show, and other local events...

Civil War comes alive (02/02/11)
The Civil War, 150 years later, still raises strong opinions among Americans of various regions and races. How should it be remembered? For what cause were the individual soldiers on each side truly fighting? A Murfreesboro physician who helped found the U.S. Colored Troops Living History Association believes that it's important to remember history, and he doesn't mind doing it by donning a period uniform and participating in re-enactments...

Library named as landmark (01/30/11)
Landmark status was granted to the Argie Cooper Public Library building by Shelbyville's planning commission Thursday night. The status for the structure at 100 S. Main St. had been requested by the Shelbyville-Bedford County Library Board and the city's Historical Zoning Commission...

Moments for a hero (01/21/11)
MURFREESBORO -- The courthouse square in Murfreesboro was crowded with fire trucks and police cars Thursday morning, but there was no emergency. What there was, was a special ceremony to honor those who respond to those emergencies -- and especially those who have lost their lives in doing so...

Celebrate Christmas with The Fly on your tree (12/21/10)
You may think you've finished up your Christmas shopping, but there's one last stocking stuffer you ought to get. The United Way's annual Bedford County-related Christmas ornament is finally here, and this year it features The Fly Arts Center. "We send pictures off to the company and they create artwork out of it," said Dawn Holley, director of the Bedford County United Way. "The ornaments are 24-karat plated."...

Road commemorates Fort (12/17/10)
Cold, wet weather didn't keep more than dozen friends, family members and neighbors of the late Mary Pepper Wells Fort from gathering on the side of a road near Wartrace Thursday morning. They were there for the unveiling of the street sign that now designates that stretch of Knob Creek Road the Mary Pepper Wells Fort Memorial Highway...

Wind-whipped flames raze well-known home (12/14/10)
A large, older house known to longtime Bedford County residents as the "old Gill home" burned to the ground late Sunday morning despite efforts of several Bedford County fire stations. The home, located on the west side of Highway 130 South just past the Duck River bridge, was "fully involved" when firefighters arrived, a Bedford County Fire Department spokesperson said...

City considers historic markers as Civil War's 150th approaches (12/03/10)
Shelbyville's city council will consider applying for a grant next week to place historic markers in town for the upcoming 150th anniversary of the Civil War. City manager Michael Dill told the council that there is going to be a lot of tourism in Tennessee over the next several years due to the sesquicentennial of the conflict, and Shelbyville needs to participate...

Ike Farrar recalls WWII pilot's story (11/11/10)
My father-in-law, Ike Farrar, has told me many stories over the years; especially over the last 10 years. He is quite a storyteller, and as he ages, they get retold and sometimes get bigger. We like to refer to Ike as "Gramps." Gramps is one of a vanishing breed. He is one of "The Greatest Generation." They were and are great for many reasons. We have been blessed in the Farrar family to have our Gramps with us for so long. He is 91 years old...

Fascinating legacy: Ferrell studies remarkable ex-pat (11/10/10)
For Professor Bob Ferrell, finding out the truth about William Oscar Jenkins was a personal matter. "If it hadn't been of him, I might have never met my wife," he said. Ferrell, a history professor at the University of South Carolina at Sumter, was at The Fly Cultural Arts Center Thursday night to speak about his research into the life of Shelbyville native William O. ...

Jenkins' wild life: Farm boy to tycoon (11/04/10)
A thrifty American farmer from a tiny Tennessee town goes to Mexico and makes a fortune. Depending on your point of view, this story could go down many different roads. Was he an industrial tycoon who exploited the natives? Was he a candidate for philanthropy sainthood?...

A birthday celebration (10/10/10)
True to form, Bedford County's University of Tennessee Extension Office went all out last Tuesday evening -- for a very good reason. "This is something special," said Whitney Danhof, extension agent, explaining the festivities were not something held annually. "This is a one-time thing. Every county across the state is doing something special today to celebrate our history."...

Jostens marks 50 years of 'family' (09/26/10)
Retirees and long-time employees of the Jostens plant on Union Street say that a family atmosphere has made the plant a good place to work for the past half-century. The plant, dedicated in November 1960, is celebrating its 50-year anniversary; a picnic was held Saturday for employees and retirees. Employees and retirees representing a total of 716 years of experience gathered Tuesday at the plant to reminisce...

History takes flight: Shelbyville-based DC3 recognized (09/16/10)
Forget all those other celebrities who have called Shelbyville home -- there's a raving beauty taking up residence here that very few even know about. Not only has she appeared in film and television, she makes educational and motivational tours across the country every year...

A lesson in remembrance (09/12/10)
Nine years ago Saturday, a series of coordinated terrorist attacks changed the course of America's history. Most Americans will probably never forget where they were when they heard the news of the Sept. 11 attacks, but as time goes on, a new generation will need to be reminded...

Bridge dedicated (07/29/10)
Bedford County Mayor Eugene Ray dedicated a bridge to a former community leader, the late Sydney C. "Bud" McGrew, Wednesday morning. A crowd of about 40 gathered on Route 130 (Belmont Avenue) just beyond the intersection of Belmont and Coney Island Road and Cliffside Avenue for the 10 a.m. ceremony...

A fabulous Fourth (07/06/10)

Veterans Council to add patriotic spirit to the square (06/29/10)
Flags will be placed on the Shelbyville square Wednesday by members of the United Veterans Council, who formerly posted the flags on Lane Parkway but had to end the practice two years ago after the group's members were nearly hit by vehicles on more than one occasion...

A once-in-200-years party (06/24/10)
You only get to celebrate your 200th birthday once. So organizers are busy making sure that Shelbyville's Bicentennial Celebration, set for Saturday, July 17, will be an event no one will soon forget. Shelbyville Main Street, the Merchants on the Square Association, and many other local groups have been joining forces to make the dream of a memorable celebration a reality...

Harris awards cap long history of Rotary Club (06/18/10)
At the next-to-last meeting of Shelbyville's noon Rotary Club, 27 people were named Paul Harris Fellows, the recognition given in return for a $1,000 contribution to Rotary International charities such as its drive to eliminate polio. The club became only the second in its district to have 100 percent of its membership with Paul Harris Fellow status. Fellowships were also given to family members of Rotarians, former Rotarians, and family members of former Rotarians...

Signs attract shoppers (06/09/10)
Stephanie Crosslin, who addressed Shelbyville City Council back in March to request signs directing shoppers to the public square and surrounding areas, said she's delighted with the response to the signs since they were placed last week. "It's a good thing for the town," said Crosslin, who works at the Antiques, Art & Collectibles Mall...

'Flag Lady' gives stars to military (06/01/10)
COLLIERVILLE (AP) -- A Collierville woman is lifting the spirits of American's servicemen and women by turning old flags into mementos of military service. The Commercial Appeal reports 68-year-old Andrea Doherty, affectionately known as "The Flag Lady," cuts the stars off of tattered flags that are going to be disposed of and gives them out to veterans and current members of the military with cards thanking them for their service...

Garden tour participants will help Tree City project (05/27/10)
The spring flowers are all almost gone, but the summer gardens are flush with beauty around Bedford County. Saturday, June 5, you can tour some of the prettier homes and businesses in the county and see what wonders the local horticultural artists have wrought...

Marine looks back on life of service (05/19/10)
The chief logistics officer for the United States Marine Corps paid Shelbyville a visit Saturday, which isn't so unusual when you learn that he grew up not too far away. Marine Lt. Gen. Frank A. Panter Jr., Deputy Commandant for Installations and Logistics, spoke Saturday evening before the Brigadier General Austin C. Shofner Detachment 1128, which was holding its third annual Marine Corps League Awards Banquet at River Bend Country Club...

Freedom isn't free, WWII vet emphasizes (05/14/10)
R.T. Haynes stresses that he wasn't a hero. But in one sense, anyone who puts on a uniform in his or her country's service is a hero, a commitment made with the constant awareness that it may require the ultimate sacrifice. Haynes served for 37 months in the Armed Forces during World War II. ...

Noted educator, walking horse historian Womack dies (04/20/10)
Dr. Bob Womack, a Bedford County native, longtime professor at Middle Tennessee State University and author of "The Echo of Hoofbeats," the definitive history of the Tennessee walking horse, died Saturday at Middle Tennessee Medical Center in Murfreesboro. Womack was the father of former State Sen. Andy Womack. He was born and raised in Bedford County but had lived in Murfreesboro for the past 53 years....

Burns gives Webb bite of Big Apple (04/13/10)
Documentary filmmaker Ric Burns brought New York to Bell Buckle on Monday, showing a clip of his acclaimed "New York: A Documentary Film" as part of his remarks to students at The Webb School, where he was part of the Follin Speaker Series. The first five episodes of "New York" aired on PBS stations in November 1999, the sixth and seventh episodes aired in 2001. ...

Companion book to HBO miniseries features Shofner (04/11/10)
The companion book to the HBO miniseries "The Pacific" features a heavy emphasis on Shelbyville war hero Austin C. Shofner, who escaped a Japanese death camp in World War II. The miniseries, produced by Tom Hanks, Steven Spielberg and Gary Goetzman, tells the story of three U.S. ...

Party planning: bicentennial celebration discussed at council meeting (04/01/10)
There's a big bash coming up this year and organizers are asking for the city's help in making it a success. After all, it's Shelbyville's 200th birthday this year. Public square merchant Kati O'Grady addressed the city council Tuesday evening to request help with safety and space on the square for the big celebration, which is set to begin Friday, July 16, ending Monday, July 19th...

106 and counting: Ora Charles takes it one day at a time (03/17/10)
Ora Charles wanted to hear "One Day At A Time" for her birthday, and so a staffer at Glen Oaks Convalescent Center rushed to a nearby computer to look up the lyrics on the Internet and print out copies so that the crowd could sing along. It was a small gesture, but a measure of how special Tuesday was; after all, your 106th birthday doesn't come along every day...

Material still sought for bicentennial volume (04/27/10)
There's still a little time to submit photos and information for the Shelbyville bicentennial history book which will be published this summer by the Times-Gazette. Former T-G editor Ren� Capley is gathering content for the book, which will serve as a companion volume to Bedford County Bicentennial: Celebrating the Past 1807-2007....

Still in the sky (03/07/10)
They were from different parts of the country and fought World War II in different parts of the world. For almost three decades, they lived only about 40 miles away from each other but they had never met. One newspaper article, one phone call and one visit later, and the two men discovered kindred spirits -- and a bond that only a few still living can share...

Logo contest for city's 200th fest (02/24/10)
Shelbyville Main Street is getting geared up for the city's 200th birthday celebration this summer, and the organization is kicking it off with a logo contest. Entries are sought for the logo that will be used for the event and a prize will be awarded...

Ray receives Unity honor (02/04/10)
MURFREESBORO -- Bedford County Mayor Eugene Ray was one of three honorees at Middle Tennessee State University's annual Unity Luncheon, a kickoff event for the school's Black History Month observance. Murfreesboro School board chair Mary McKnight Wade and foster parent Nora L. ...

Cooper lived to see many barriers collapse (12/23/09)
She lived through the Depression and the Civil Rights movement. She saw president after president inaugurated -- and heard one call her by name. She could recall when women could not vote, and then she cast her vote for Barack Obama. She had known success and failure, been subjected to hatred and grace, and now, after 107 years on this earth, she knows peace...

Replica of log cabin constructed near Gilliland home (10/25/09)
The ceremony at the log cabin behind the Gilliland House Friday morning was all about preserving history -- but was also about protecting the future by preserving the past. Since 1975, the former home of well-known black stone and brick mason James Gilliland at 803 Lipscomb St. ...

Former Bumpers / Sonic location torn down (10/14/09)

Patriot Day to commemorate Sept. 11 attacks (09/10/09)
Citizens of Bedford County are being invited to join a Patriot Day Observance on the upcoming anniversary of 9/11 at noon Friday on the Shelbyville square. The event will last until 1 p.m. and is being presented by the Exchange Club of Bedford County, Mainstreet Shelbyville and the city's parks and recreation department...

Local educator says Apollo helped US engineering dominance (07/19/09)
On Monday, the world will celebrate the 40th anniversary of man's first steps on the moon, and Billy Hix of Shelbyville will be among those cheering. Hix, a professor of education technologies at Motlow State Community College, is also an educational consultant for NASA, helping to try to show educators better ways to teach science and engineering. He will join other NASA employees on Monday at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center for a celebration of Apollo 11's "one giant step for mankind."...

Crowd gathers to celebrate Fourth (07/07/09)
Hundreds of people were making their way to H.V. Griffin Park Saturday afternoon, even before the Fourth of July celebration officially kicked off at 3 p.m. Old, young, white, African-American, Hispanic, Asian, rich, poor, or "simply gettin' by," they wandered past vendors, games and musical entertainment to celebrate the day together -- celebrating the freedom to assemble...

Shelbyville, Bell Buckle mark Independence Day (07/05/09)
In many ways, the celebration of the Fourth of July is more than just getting together a bunch of people to admire the latest in pyrotechnics. In small towns, Independence Day exemplifies America at its best, from community spirit and volunteerism to entrepreneurship and the pursuit of happiness...

Cops to be out in force on the Fourth (07/02/09)
The Fourth of July brings certain things every year, such as fireworks, picnics, ants, games, fun -- and increased law enforcement. Whether you're going to the events in Bell Buckle's city park or H.V. Griffin Park in Shelbyville, keep in mind that area and state law enforcement will be out, looking for drunk drivers...

Halls Mill celebrates its heritage (06/28/09)
The Halls Mill Heritage Days annual fundraiser took place Friday and Saturday at the Halls Mill Triangle Community Club. Friday night was Family Night and included a talent show, an ice cream supper, kids' games, and a lawn tractor pull. "We had quite a few people last night because it was Family Night. ...

Museum intern wants to bring history to life (06/15/09)
For Camey Buck of Monteagle, getting lost on the Shelbyville square turned out to be a lucky venture. Buck is a rising senior at Tusculum College in Greeneville and is a double major in history and museum studies. She was intrigued when she saw the sign for the Fly Arts Center and Museum...

Bradley entertains with Civil War lore (06/12/09)
The Shelbyville Woman's Club had a humorous and historically-minded speaker at its June meeting Wednesday. Michael Bradley, a professor at Motlow State Community College since 1970 and an author of several books about the Civil War, was the guest presenter. He displayed not only his sense of humor but his knowledge about the war and some of its local heroes...

Shoffner looks back on legal career (06/04/09)
After more than 56 years of legal practice, Allen Shoffner is looking back at a life of law and looking forward to a life of leisure. "I've tried to avoid the use of the term 'retirement,'" said Shoffner. But while he still does occasional favors for old clients, he's not taking any new ones and is in the process of closing his law office, saving files of historic or personal value, and destroying the rest...

History repeats itself: flume problems are memories for engineer (05/17/09)
"These photos really bring back memories." If you think that dealing with 200 feet of a collapsed storm water flume is a problem, try coping with what engineer Rex Northcutt faced in 1963 -- 2,300 feet of ruined steel lying underground. Today, Shelbyville officials are dealing with a repeat of exactly what happened 47 years ago -- a damaged flume and a lot of questions surrounding the cause...

Cemetery returns to life (04/29/09)
When one thinks about hobbies, one of the last things that likely comes to mind is plowing through brush, cutting through sharp limbs and picking up trash. For Julia Minatra, however, her passion has led her to a mystical land that's filled -- overwhelmed -- with just that. Brush, twigs, branches, leaves and who knows what else have taken over a small, yet ancient, cemetery on Shelbyville Mills Road...

Educators walk through Gilliland history (03/06/09)
A little more than a decade ago, the rundown house at 803 Lipscomb St. was nothing more than, well, a rundown house. But the man who once lived in that house, the late James Gilliland, a self-taught stone mason, would no doubt be proud to see what's become of his former home...

Ward prints of old First Baptist building to benefit missions (02/05/09)
A few years ago, Warren Landers commissioned artist Jerry Ward to paint a picture of the former First Baptist Church building as a way to pay tribute to the church and its members. Now, prints are being sold of that painting, and proceeds will benefit the church's mission projects, both locally and worldwide...

County bicentennial marker unveiled (08/15/08)
A permanent marker commemorating Bedford County's bicentennial in 2007 was unveiled on Wednesday, although one element of the marker -- a display of the official county seal -- had been in discussion long before the bicentennial. The marker is located on the southeast corner of the county courthouse lawn...

A celebration in Halls Mill (07/18/08)
It's more than a community club -- it's a community. The Triangle Community Club in Halls Mill is where residents of the area gather for meetings, picnics, dancing and more. And now, they are gathering for the community center, not just at it. "The heating and air unit is in great need of repair," said Daphne Motes. "We used a lot of fuel last year, which depleted our funds."...

Shofner's Chapel observes bicentennial (06/02/08)
More than 300 friends and family gathered around Shofner's Chapel this weekend to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the church. The first Sunday in June has traditionally been a homecoming day for members of the Shofner and Jenkins families, as well as others who have worshiped at the chapel and their families...

Shofner's Chapel celebrates bicentennial (05/30/08)
On almost every Sunday of the year, the little church on Thompson's Creek stands empty -- but love resonates in the old clapboard building. Love of God, love of family, love of community, love of history. When the first German immigrants first gathered in the home of Martin Shofner to worship exactly 200 years ago, they laid the foundation of love that will be celebrated this weekend at Shofner's Lutheran Chapel...

Monument may honor county's bicentennial (03/24/08)
Bedford County Bicentennial Organizing Committee has proposed placing a stone monument on the courthouse lawn which would commemorate last year's Bicentennial observance and which would display the county seal developed several years ago. Funds remaining in the Bicentennial account would be sufficient to pay for the monument...

Cornerstone items too delicate to handle (03/04/08)
The items removed Feb. 24 from the 1914 cornerstone of Turner College are in such delicate condition that representatives of Woodfork Chapel AME Church have not been able to handle or review them. They have been sent to the Tennessee Library and Archives for preservation, according to Woodfork Chapel member Mary Ann Brame. Eventually, the church would like to publish a book with images from the discovered paperwork...

Cornerstone opened from historic school (02/25/08)
Various publications, course catalogs and even a blank check were found in a 1914 cornerstone from Turner College, which was opened Sunday in observance of Black History Month. Margaret Stewart, who led the service at Woodfork Chapel AME Church on Lipscomb Street, called the cornerstone opening "a once-in-a-lifetime occasion."...

Journal gives a glimpse into Civil War days (02/19/08)
Attention all history buffs! Anyone who's interested in Civil War history, reading or simply Middle Tennessee heritage will find something entertaining in L. Virginia French's War Journal, published by Jerry Smith of the Blockade Runner sutlery in Wartrace...

Civil War re-enactment planned here (02/16/08)
There will be a thunderous noise heard in middle Tennessee during the second week of June, but it won't be the Bonnaroo Music Festival. Instead, men dressed in the colors of blue and gray will gather during this time in Bedford County to commemorate the 145-year anniversary of the Tullahoma Campaign of the Civil War, which took place along the banks of the Duck River...

Turner cornerstone to be opened Feb. 24 (02/12/08)
The cornerstone from the historic Turner College will be opened 1 p.m. Feb. 24 at the Woodfork Chapel AME Church. The event, being held in honor of Black History Month, is open to the public. "We have no idea what's inside," said Lynn Hulan of Musgrave Pencil Company, which owns the site...

End of the newspaper war (02/02/08)
It was 60 years ago Saturday that what I'll call "the great Shelbyville newspaper war" ended. Look at our masthead (actually at the bottom, not head, of page 4; it's a traditional newspaper term) and you'll see the phrase "The Bedford County Times and Shelbyville Gazette, consolidated Feb. 1, 1948."...

Growth plan hearings this week (01/12/08)
If the future growth of the county is a topic that concerns you, you will have three chances to sound off with your opinion this week. A series of public hearings will be held by the Bedford County's Joint Economic Development Board (JEDB) on the subject of the comprehensive master plan that is to be used as an update to Bedford County's growth plan...

Bicentennial group may continue activities (12/12/07)
What was intended as the last meeting of Bedford County Bicentennial Organizing Committee ... may turn out not to be. The committee met Tuesday at the Bell Buckle Caf�, to wrap up loose ends and celebrate the successful completion of a year's worth of events marking the county's 200th birthday. ...

A party two centuries in the making (12/04/07)
Bedford County celebrated two centuries on Monday night, with a rousing choral performance by the Area-Wide Fellowship for Christ Choir, and official proclamations marking the occasion. Monday was the actual 200th anniversary of the county's founding, and a public celebration was held in the Blue Ribbon Circle on the Celebration grounds...

Happy birthday, Bedford County! (12/03/07)
Today marks Bedford County's 200th birthday. The county was chartered Dec. 3, 1807, made up of land which had previously been part of Rutherford County. It was named for Revolutionary War hero Thomas Bedford. Bedford County Bicentennial Organizing Committee is capping off a year of observances with tonight's celebration at Blue Ribbon Circle on the Celebration grounds. The committee also organized Saturday's "Celebration of Christmas Past" on the public square...

Christmas on the square (12/01/07)
The Bicentennial Organizing Committee's "Celebration of Christmas Past" kicked off Saturday night on the square, with County Mayor Eugene Ray delivering words of welcome and pianist Chris Keller providing the music.

Governor proclaims 'Bedford County Day' Dec. 3 (11/27/07)
Gov. Phil Bredesen has signed a proclamation declaring Dec. 3, the county's 200th birthday, as "Bedford County Day" in Tennessee. State Sen. Jim Tracy and officials of Bedford County Historical Society presented a copy of the proclamation to County Mayor Eugene Ray on Monday, so that it can be read and referred to during the official bicentennial celebration Dec. 3 at the Blue Ribbon Circle on the Celebration grounds...

A Celebration of Christmas Past (11/24/07)
Plans are being finalized for Bedford County Bicentennial Organizing Committee's "Celebration of Christmas Past," Dec. 1 on and around the Shelbyville square. The event is scheulded to run from 3-5 p.m. Activities will include: In addition, later that night the dinner theatre productin of "Exit the Body" will be presented at The Fly. Call 703-7613 for reservations...

It's here at last -- in time for holiday giving (11/30/07)
"Bedford County Bicentennial: Celebrating the Past 1807-2007," our new pictorial history, is now available. Call (931) 684-1200 or stop by our offices at 323 E. Depot St. for more information.

Plans finalized for Bicentennial events (11/13/07)
Bedford County Bicentennial Organizing Committee held its last working meeting this morning, to make final preparations for the "Celebration of Christmas Past" Dec. 1 on the square and for the official bicentennial observance Dec. 3 at the Blue Ribbon Circle...

Historic school building enters new phase (11/12/07)
A historic Elm Street structure has been receiving a facelift over the past few months and the public will get a chance this week to see what has been done. The building once housed Bedford County Training School, Shelbyville's school for African-Americans in the years before desegregation, which took place from 1965-67. It was later Harris Middle School. Now, it has been renovated into an office complex; the large gymnasium is in the process of restoration as well...

Bicentennial book now at the printer (11/10/07)
The Times-Gazette publication "Bedford County Bicentennial: Celebrating the Past, 1807-2007" has left the building. "We are thrilled to have the book at the printers and being readied for printing," said book author and T-G Editor Ren� A. Capley. "This is exciting, to see months of work come together."...

Honoring the past (10/26/07)

County seeks Christmas tree (10/15/07)
Bedford County Mayor Eugene Ray is looking for a 15-to-20-foot Christmas tree. Ray told Bedford County Bicentennial Organizing Committee this morning that he wants a tall tree for the courthouse lawn, preferably one that can be planted and left there permanenty, for the planned Dec. 1 tree-lighting ceremony. Ray can only find normal home-sized trees locally and is now trying to find out whether a tree is available in McMinnville, widely known as a home to nurseries...

Own a piece of history (10/12/07)
Pre-orders are being taken for the Times-Gazette's "Bedford Bicentennial," a pictorial Bedford County history book scheduled for release in November. The cost is $45 per copy, or $35 each for orders of 10 or more. This will be a hard-bound "coffee table" book...

Bicentennial planning continues (09/17/07)
Bedford County Bicentennial Organizing Committee is now looking towards the final two events of the county's year-long celebration -- a "Celebration of Christmas Past" Dec. 1 on the courthouse square, and the closing celebration two days later at the Blue Ribbon Circle on the Celebration grounds...

Shofner honored for service (09/10/07)
Comrades and family gathered Saturday in memory of a Shelbyville Marine who escaped a Japanese death camp in World War II and returned to fight again. "He was a true American hero," said master of ceremonies Fred Duffer of the Brig. Gen. Austin C. Shofner Marine Corps League Detachment 1128, which holds the event each summer. "He epitomized a true Marine."...

Bicentennial book nears completion (09/04/07)
The 200th birthday of Bedford County is only months away and the final preparations for the book commemorating that history are in the final stages at the Times-Gazette. "We are taking the month of September to complete the historical editorial and pictorial pages of the Bicentennial Book," said managing editor of the T-G, Ren� A. ...

Scouts moving log cabin (09/01/07)
Austin Sadler of Shelbyville is working toward becoming an Eagle Scout and has come up with a unique way of earning his badge --by moving a part of local history. Over the next few weeks, Austin will relocate a log structure in Tullahoma dated over 100 years-old and move it to Wartrace...

Gilliland log home will honor Fred Hendricks (08/30/07)
It was the dream of Fred "Pete" Hendricks to see the log home at the Gilliland Historical Resource Center used for educating young people, but Hendricks passed away before his dream could be realized...

Genealogist preserves marriage records (08/13/07)
Janet Frey, an employee with the Geneaological Society of Utah, recently completed a project of photographing Bedford County marriage licenses from 1853 through 1976 at the county's history room on the first floor of Bedford County Courthouse. Frey, who lives in Pleasant View, northwest of Nashville, said that the Genealogical Society of Utah works closely with the Tennessee State Library and Archives to preserve fragile historical records. ...

Ray outlines county progress (08/09/07)
"Bedford County is moving." That was the message County Mayor Eugene Ray gave the Exchange Club of Bedford County Wednesday. "We're the fifth fastest growing county in the state," Ray said, which is why the city of Shelbyville and the county are working together with a long term growth plan. He invited the public to participate in the process, which will determine the course taken over the next 15 to 20 years...

Organizers call 10th fair a success (07/30/07)
Judy Gambill is breathing a sigh of relieved contentment today following the successful conclusion of the Bedford County Fair. "We have had such a fun week," she said. "Everyone is tired, but it's a good tired because we know the Fair was a success."...

Fair is for the birds (07/27/07)
The Bedford County Fair has gone to the birds! It is said that birds of a feather flock together and never was there a more perfect example of that than at the exhibition building of the Bedford County Ag Center. Row after row of champion, feathered-friends, representing the poultry species of the world, take center stage...

Fair horse show will be held Friday (07/26/07)
One of the highlights of the Bedford County Fair is, without doubt, also the essence of a country county fair. The animals on exhibit, in competition and in blue ribbons, are the stars of the show. Such will be the case on Friday night as the All Pleasure Horse Show rolls out the red carpet for entries in 24 classes of competition...

Storytelling more hysterical than historical (07/26/07)
There's lot of big things at the Bedford County Fair this year. There's a big Ferris wheel, Big Red, the massive steer, and yesterday, there were big tales being told by guests during Senior Citizens' Day. The activities for the day were organized by Pat Finney with the assistance of her husband Bob. The day included bingo; a variety of old-fashioned contests such as watermelon seed spitting; a sponsored lunch; and, this year, storytelling...

Long-eared wonders at the fair (07/25/07)
t seems like only yesterday that the historic Celebration show grounds were filled with the wonderful, long-eared equines but this Saturday they return to Bedford County, at least part of them, for the Bedford County Fair Mule Show. Though the Fair opens at 9 a.m., the first mule event doesn't begin until 1 p.m. New to the Fair this year is the Mule Pulling but there are all sorts of divisions of competition represented, from large to small, pulling to pretty...

10th annual fair opens (07/24/07)
The Bedford County Fair opened Monday night amidst the sounds of lowing cattle, laughing children and musical strains from competitors of the Bedford Idol event. Sam Powell, noted horse whisperer throughout the nation, demonstrated his techniques to hometown enthusiasts in a new event...

'Fairest of the Fair' this weekend (07/20/07)
Only hours remain in the tenure of Fairest of the Fair 2006 queen Ashley Smith. The daughter of Jim Ed and Jerri Lynn Smith of Shelbyville, she will relinquish her crown Saturday night to one of the six contestants entered in this year's edition of Fairest of the Fair competition...

Poultry, rabbits to be featured at Fair (07/17/07)
The Bedford County Fair has gone to the birds ... and rabbits! Beginning on July 25, the separate shows will feature entries from around the county, in the county, and, as rabbits are bound to do, will be popping out all over. Karl Pyrdum and Fred Pimentel have joined together as chairmen of the shows. Pyrdum has been involved with poultry showing and judging for over a decade. Pimentel enjoys the competitive side of poultry and rabbits, too...

Seniors get special day at Fair (07/05/07)
The Bedford County Fair is just around the corner and preparations are underway in full force. From the stages of Harris Middle and the pageantry events for the newborns to over 18 age group to the Seniors Day, the fair promises something for everyone. Pat Finney is the director of the Senior Citizens Day-portion of the Fair. Along with Sarah Hill and Gene and Sandra Smith, the committee has taken a step back in time, spotlighting the day with an Ole Timers Storytelling Hour. "We are so excited about this event," said Finney. "This is an opportunity for the Senior Citizens of Bedford County to tell their stories. Childhood stories, holiday stories -- whatever they have to tell -- this is the time to do it." "As we celebrate the county's bicentennial, the story telling hour is a way to capture the history that might otherwise be lost. I am really glad we could offer this entertainment and let them dress the part as well." Finney refers to the invitation for the Senior Citizens to dress in Bicentennial-period clothing for the day. The admission price will even be free for those participating in the dress mode. Those not wishing to dress-up in period fashion of Bedford County's founding heyday will be charged a reduced entrance fee to the Fair for Senior Citizens Day at $2. "This is a day dedicated to and in honor of our Senior Citizens 55 and older," said Finney. "This is their special day, complete with a fried chicken lunch sponsored by MidState Finance. Because this is a day set aside for the Seniors, the activities are reserved for them alone." The luncheon will be served from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and is for senior participants only. "The bingo games begin at 10:45 a.m. and again at 1:30 p.m.," said Finney. "This is something they all enjoy and thanks to Lee Adcock Construction, there are prizes available for the games as well." In addition to bingo, bicentennial and story telling, Finney said returning to the day's events were watermelon seed spitting contests and egg catching. "The presentation of the nation's colors will be done by Franklin Smith and Boy Scout troop 370," Finney related. "Valerie McConnell will sing the national anthem and Chancellor J.B. Cox will say the invocation." The events are the Fair begins at 10 a.m. and conclude for Senior day following the final round of bingo at approximately 2:30 p.m. "We are proud to honor our Senior Citizens," said Finney. "This is a day designed for them to enjoy all the activities the Fair offers." The Bedford County Fair begins on July 23 and runs through July 28. Activities for farm animals, farm equipment, singing, beauty and homegrown delights are scheduled. For more information on Senior Day, contact Pat Finney at 684-0262, Sarah Hill at 684-5429, or Gene and Sandra Smith at 857-3204.

Fireworks cancelled due to drought conditions (06/27/07)
The fireworks display scheduled for July 4th at Shelbyville City Park has been canceled on the recommendation of Fire Chief John Habel due to the extreme drought the area is enduring. Other activities scheduled for the 4th at the park will go on as scheduled, Recreation Director Silva Pinson said...

Bicentennial plans for upcoming events (06/18/07)
Bedford County Bicentennial Organizing Committee has had a presence at recent events like the Spring Fun Show and the Wartrace Music Festival; the next stops will be the Duck River Cleanup this weekend and the Independence Day festivities July 4 at H.V. Griffin Park...

Horse whisperer will highlight county fair (06/11/07)
Shelbyville's Sam Powell is renown in horse circles around the world. Known by many as the Horse Whisperer, his abilities in working with the equine world will be demonstrated to audiences during this year's Bedford County Fair. As head of Sam Powell Equine Consulting Services, Powell daily introduces horse owners to his system of non-violent and effective training. ...

Almost Moon Pie time (06/05/07)
The 16th of this month may be known to most as the third Saturday in June, but to the folks of Bell Buckle, it only means one thing: RC Cola and Moon Pie time! This is the 13th year the two Southern traditions have been celebrated and with more than 15,000 people attending every year, it is one of the biggest summer events in the county...

Fairest of the Fair set for July 21 (06/05/07)
The Bedford County Fair Fairest of the Fair, an annual event in the community, will kick off the 2007 festivities on July 21 at 7 p.m. The pageant is open to girls of all ages from birth to 21 years old. Boys are also welcome to participate with age bracket ranging from birth to 5 years old...

Statistics sought for Bicentennial book (06/04/07)
The Bicentennial Book of Bedford County, a pictorial history book to be published by the T-G in time for the county's actual December birthday, is searching the county for statistics. "In order to provide an overall view of many areas of the county," said book coordinator and T-G Editor Ren� Capley, "we are collecting information on the 'oldest' lists. ...

July 4 observance will have Bicentennial flavor (06/01/07)
Erma Bombeck, noted newspaper humorist, said, "You have to love a nation that celebrates its independence every July 4, not with a parade of guns, tanks, and soldiers who file by the White House in a show of strength and muscle, but with family picnics where kids throw Frisbees, the potato salad gets iffy, and the flies die from happiness. You may think you have overeaten, but it is patriotism."...

'Fair-on-the-square' bears repeating (05/30/07)
The response to this month's "Bicentennial Fair on the Square" was overwhelmingly positive. The attendance wasn't overwhelming, but it was respectable, and the people who attended all had a great time. Johnny Reed and Dawn Holley, who are the activity co-chairs for Bedford County Bicentennial Organizing Committee, worked countless hours, as did many, many others in organizing the event...

Bicentennial book still needs submissions (05/30/07)
Bedford County Bicentennial Book is in the final stage of accepting contributions. The deadline for submissions to the Times-Gazette's pictorial history book is July 1. The book, to be published in November just prior to the actual birthday of the county's founding in December, will highlight the historical journey from the American Indian presence to the rebuilding of the courthouse to modern day...

Music Fest will have Wartrace in tune (05/23/07)
Wartrace is famous for many things, beginning with its name. It is the birthplace of the Tennessee Walking Horse and the home of Gallagher Guitars. On June 1-2, it will roll out the red carpet at the Wartrace Horse Show grounds for a stage full of award-winning performers during Wartrace Music Fest...

Bicentennial fair called a success (05/21/07)
Bedford County Bicentennial Organizing Committee members said this morning that the feedback from this month's Bicentennial Fair on the Square has been overwhelmingly positive. "Everything that I heard about ... was absolutely awesome," said Dixie Parker, who chairs the committee...

Women's Club opens year with Bicentennial program (05/10/07)
The Shelbyville Woman's Club 2007-08 year was kicked off at River Bend Country Club Wednesday with a bicentennial program by County Mayor Eugene Ray and Shelbyville Mayor Geneva Smith. The program also included the installation of new officers and the presentation of the "Bright and Shining Star" award...

Meet your T-G staff (05/04/07)
Saturday's Bicentennial Fair on the Square will offer many unique activities to be enjoyed by the community. Among those celebrating the event will be members of the staff of the Times-Gazette. The T-G booth will feature an opportunity for readers to get to know the people behind the scenes at the paper. Several writers and composition artists will be on hand for a meet and greet session throughout the day in addition to hosting a subscription event for both existing and new subscribers...

A night with the symphony (05/02/07)
When he first had the chance to speak to the Community High School Wind Symphony, a little after 4 p.m. Tuesday, Resident Conductor Albert-George Schram of the Nashville Symphony told them they were going to be "the cherry on the cake" -- the thing that made Tuesday night's concert special...

Planning for Bicentennial Square Fair ramps up (04/30/07)
Final planning is underway for this Saturday's Bicentennial Fair on the Square, and the Bedford County Bicentennial Organizing Committee discussed the project at its meeting this morning. The east, south and west sides of the courthouse square will be closed all day Saturday, with all traffic routed to the south side. Activities will begin with an opening ceremony at 10 a.m. and a community and costume parade (no floats) at 10:15...

Tale of a Confederate soldier (04/28/07)
How did a native Virginian, killed in Kentucky during the Civil War, wind up in Willow Mount Cemetery in Shelbyville? According to a paper written by Les Marsh of the local chapter of the Sons of Confederate Veterans, Capt. William H. Keiter had been conducting a military school in Shelbyville prior to the outbreak of the war. ...

Work underway on history book (04/24/07)
Governors, congressmen and soldiers have risen from the rolling hills of Bedford County to serve hearth and homeland. Actresses, actors and authors have started their climb to stardom and fame in the classrooms in communities within the county. Teachers, judges, moms and dads, coaches, horse trainers and business owners have made their homes here for generations and they have given Shelbyville and Bedford County the flavor that residents and visitors alike enjoy...

Liberty for all, but not for slaves (04/13/07)
TULLAHOMA -- It's one of the greatest paradoxes of American history: the founding fathers based the new United States of America on liberty and the idea of "all men ... created equal," and yet they allowed the institution of slavery to continue. Dr. ...

Square Fair will celebrate Bicentennial (04/09/07)
The Bicentennial Square Fair, scheduled for May 5 on the Shelbyville square, will be a day-long celebration of Bedford County, including live music, contests, classic cars, a costume parade and other activities. The event was termed "Old Timer's Day" during early planning. The new name was included in materials reviewed this morning by the Bedford County Bicentennial organizing committee...

Work continues on T-G's bicentennial book (03/29/07)
Do you know the name of the man for whom our county is named? The route to Atlanta wandered through our fair county. Do you know the track? Shaker's Shocker was the first and only horse to ever achieve what? Can you name the first African American to open a dry cleaner in Shelbyville? What about the legend behind the name Bell Buckle? How many mills once operated in Bedford County?...

Bicentennial coins available (03/19/07)
Pre-orders are now being taken for coins, key tags and medallions celebrating Bedford County's bicentennial, the local bicentennial organizing committee heard this morning. Karen Thrasher and Jenny Hunt presented display models of each item. The coins and key tags will cost $10 each, while the medallion will be $30. Delivery is expected in four weeks...

Work continues on Bicentennial history (03/14/07)
Have your submitted your story or photograph yet for the Times-Gazette's Bicentennial History book? If not, it's not too late. Don't miss out on sharing your part of history in this special commemorative issue celebrating Bedford County's 200th birthday...

Symphony will return May 1 (03/05/07)
Associate Conductor Albert-George Schram will lead The Nashville Symphony in its annual concert in Shelbyville, which has been scheduled for 7 p.m. May 1 at Calsonic Arena. The Community High School band will also perform at the concert. The local steering committee for the concert met last week...

Bicentennial T-shirts available (02/26/07)
Bedford County Bicentennial T-shirts are now in and will be available at a variety of local businesses, with a second design on the way. That was one of several updates at this morning's meeting of the Bedford County Bicentennial organizing committee...

Statue celebrates women's history (02/17/07)
To the untrained eye, the small building at Sherry Warner Hunter's home outside of Bell Buckle is just another one of many structures that dot the rural landscape of Bedford County. But inside, you see that its a sculpting studio where creative magic takes place. Artwork from this building has ended up all over the state and another piece is being worked on that will be unveiled next month in Shelbyville...

Bicentennial planning progresses (02/05/07)
Planning continues for the observance of Bedford County's 200th birthday, and a bicentennial web site has been posted at www.bedfordtn200.org with information about upcoming events and memorabilia. The bicentennial planning committee met this morning at Shelbyville & Bedford County Chamber of Commerce...

T-G plans bicentennial book (01/31/07)
It is said that southerners seem to identify with their communities more than others. It is this connection to our own community that we celebrate as we commemorate the 200th birthday of Bedford County. In honor of this significant birthday celebration, the Times-Gazette is gathering information and photographs that chronicle our people, our land, our traditions. ...

Fair will honor bicentennial (01/22/07)
The 10th annual Bedford County Fair will observe another anniversary as well, with a celebration of Bedford County's 200th birthday on the fair's opening night. Judy Gambill of the fair board made the announcement during this morning's meeting of the Bedford County Bicentennial organizing committee...

Bicentennial Cookbook being prepared (01/13/07)
More than 400 recipes have been received for the Times-Gazette's Bicentennial Recipe Book, which is scheduled for release Feb. 1 in connection with this year's celebration of Bedford County's 200th birthday. While the deadline for submission of recipes has passed, advertisers still have an opportunity to participate in the book...

'Old Timer's Day' added to bicentennial list (01/08/07)
Bedford County Bicentennial Committee has scheduled an "old timer's day" May 12 on the square, with plans to include old favorite games like checkers and dominoes, potato sack races, wheel and stick races and a cake walk. This year marks the county's 200th birthday, and the committee continues its planning for a variety of events and promotions, possibly including a commemorative coin or medallion as well as bicentennial T-shirts that will be sold throughout the year. ...

Bicentennial coin, book being planned (12/11/06)
A commemorative coin is being planned as a keepsake of Bedford County's 2007 bicentennial observance, while a county history book has been completed and is ready to be printed. The Bedford County Bicentennial Committee met this morning to continue planning for the 200th anniversary celebration, which was officially launched earlier this month with the Shelbyville Christmas Parade as its first sanctioned event...

'Postcard Memories' available for purchase (12/11/06)
The new book is on the way! The big day has arrived for hundreds of Bedford countians anxious to fill their Christmas stockings with the Bedford County Historical Society's latest publication, Postcard Memories of Bedford County. The new book kicks off the Society's year-long bicentennial salute, celebrating the county's bicentennial throughout 2007 and culminating on the county's actual anniversary date on Dec. 3, 2007...

Parade kicks off Bicentennial observance (12/04/06)
The annual Shelbyville Christmas Parade, which this year served as the first official event of the 2007 Bedford County Bicentennial Celebration, went off smoothly on Saturday night, with crowds braving the chilly temperatures to vie 90 parade entries ranging from horses to fire trucks...

Parade is Saturday night (11/27/06)
Today is the last day for entries to be accepted for Shelbyville's annual Christmas parade, which will begin at 6 p.m. Saturday. In case of inclement weather, the parade will be held Sunday afternoon. "It's going pretty good," said Michelle Majors of Shelbyville Jaycees, which co-sponsors the parade with the Shelbyville & Bedford County Chamber of Commerce. ...

Bicentennial events sought (11/21/06)
Organizers of the local Bedford County Bicentennial observance are looking for events to add to their calendar for 2007. These can be existing events or programs -- for example, a community club could decide to have a bicentennial program for one of its regularly-scheduled meetings, or an existing festival or performance could take on a bicentennial flavor. Or they can be stand-alone events held especially for the bicentennial...

Bicentennial plans continue (10/23/06)
Plans for Bedford County's 200th anniversary celebration continue to take shape; various committee heads and other interested members of the county's bicentennial committee met this morning at the Chamber of Commerce building to discuss activities and projects...

A glimpse of nature at library luncheon (10/18/06)
Authors Dennis Horn and Tavia Cathcart gave attendees of the 20th annual Tennessee Box Lunch a glimpse of Tennessee's native flora Tuesday with a slide presentation based on their book, "Wildflowers of Tennessee, the Ohio Valley, and the Southern Appalachians."...

Bicentennial observances being planned (10/07/06)
Members of Bedford County Bicentennial Committee are hoping for not only county-wide observances but neighborhood events which will celebrate the county's various incorporated and unincorporated communities. The committee met Friday afternoon at the Emergency Management Agency building on Eagle Boulevard...

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