Nestled in the heart of Tennessee lies the quaint little town of Shelbyville. This charming town is a hidden gem full of fascinating tales of the past that most people have never heard before. From heroic figures to surprising events, Shelbyville is a town with a unique and rich history that is just waiting to be discovered. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most surprising stories from the history of Shelbyville, TN.
The Bell Witch Haunting
One of the most infamous tales from the history of Shelbyville is the Bell Witch haunting, which took place in the early 1800s. John Bell and his family were tormented by a vengeful spirit for years, and the story of the haunting quickly spread throughout the region. The Bell Witch was said to be responsible for scratching, pulling hair, and even speaking to members of the family. The haunting became so famous that it was even the subject of a book and a movie.
Heroes of Shelbyville
Although the Bell Witch haunting is a spooky tale, there are also many stories of bravery and heroism from Shelbyville’s history. One such hero was Sam Davis, a Confederate soldier who was hanged by Union forces for refusing to give up information. Another hero was Bobo Newsom, a pitcher from Shelbyville who played for several major league baseball teams and was known for his courage and determination.
The Great Fire of 1934
One of the most devastating events in Shelbyville’s history was the Great Fire of 1934. The fire quickly spread through downtown, destroying many businesses and homes. Despite the destruction, the town rallied together to rebuild, and today, the downtown area is a thriving hub of activity.
The War of the Roses
Shelbyville is also known for a unique event called the War of the Roses. In the early 1900s, two wealthy families, the Pilkingtons and the Hordleys, were engaged in a feud. The two families would often clash in public, and their arguments would often turn violent. Eventually, the town banned the families from speaking to one another, and the conflict fizzled out.
A Presidential Visit
In 1842, President John Tyler visited Shelbyville during his tour of the southern states. The town went all out to welcome him, including firing cannons as his carriage entered the town. The president stayed at the Lynchburg Inn, and his visit was a memorable moment in the town’s history.
Shelbyville, Tennessee, is a town with a unique and rich history that is just waiting to be discovered. From haunting spirits to heroic figures, and even a presidential visit, Shelbyville has a fascinating past that is both surprising and intriguing. As locals or guests in town, we should take the time to explore and uncover these fascinating stories and appreciate the stories that make Shelbyville such a special place.
