Truly authentic and historical experiences exist right here in Murfreesboro.
“There are still a lot of people that we meet who aren't aware of the story of Cannonsburgh or the significance of the Bradley Academy Museum and Cultural Center. We really encourage people to take a tour or attend an event,” shares Rachel Singer, Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation assistant director.
Exploring the grounds of Cannonsburgh allows visitors to step back in time at 312 S. Front St. In fact, the historic Cannonsburgh Village, which is nestled outside of downtown Murfreesboro, represents approximately 100 years of early Tennessee life from the 1830s to the 1930s.
Settled quaintly within that village is a gristmill, schoolhouse, a telephone operator's house, the University House, the Leeman House, a museum, a caboose, the Wedding Chapel, a doctor's office, a general store and a blacksmith's shop. All these spots are open so guests can walk in and get a glimpse of real life during this period.
The Wedding Chapel is an incredibly unique venue, and has celebrated hundreds of weddings and vow renewals throughout the years.
Cannonsburgh staffers offer specialized programming that allows everyone to immerse themselves into early life, with woodworking, blacksmithing, music and more. Many of these elements are highlighted during the two, big events hosted in the village: Harvest Days in the fall and Pioneer Days in the spring. These special events include live demonstrations, entertainment, craft vendors, food trucks, art exhibitions and antique car shows.
There's also the World’s Largest Cedar Bucket on display, which has quite a story of its own. It's a red cedar bucket with a capacity of 1,573 gallons. It's approximately 6 feet tall, with diameters of 6 feet at the base and 7 feet 9 inches at the top. It reportedly was originally built in 1887 by the Tennessee Red Cedar Woodenworks Company as a marketing tool, and later was displayed at world fairs.
People come from all over to take in this local history. In the first month of summer alone, Cannonsburgh had 967 visitors from 37 states and 10 countries.
Another fascinating piece of history right here to explore is the Bradley Academy Museum and Cultural Center at 415 S Academy St.
“The history of the Bradley Academy Museum and Cultural Center is rich and far-reaching. So many individuals who've gone on to hold prominent positions in our city have connections to this very building. I'd love for more people to step into this space, explore its story, and discover the lasting impact Bradley has made on generations of lives," says Susan Hicks, cultural arts supervisor.
Bradley Academy was built in 1806 as the first school for education of white males only. In 1884, African American students, males and females, were allowed to attend school. The current structure was built in 1917 and opened as the new school for African American students in 1918. Today, Bradley Academy Museum and Cultural Center houses an original classroom and an Early Settlers for the City of Murfreesboro and the County of Rutherford exhibit. It also serves as a multipurpose facility for cultural, educational and social enrichment purposes.
The Bradley Academy hosts several events throughout the year, such as Heritage Days and a citywide celebration of Juneteenth. Shayla Mayo, facility coordinator for the museum and center, is excited about all the upcoming opportunities for growth. "The more I've gotten to know Bradley Academy as an institution; I've come to realize that our space and the community that has supported and passed through it have deep roots that weave into so many aspects of our history. It’s an incredibly relevant part of Murfreesboro's past and present, and we welcome the community to come and explore.”
During this May alone, Cannonsburgh had 967 visitors from 37 states and 10 countries. Visit MurfreesboroParks.com for locations, hours and upcoming events.