Sep 09, 2024. Home / Manchester, Tennessee / Marketing
The city of Manchester holds an unwavering commitment to become the center of manufacturing and commerce in the region. Established in 1836 with this ambition and named after the industrial city of Manchester, England, it has a rich history, a strategic location, and cultural significance. Today, Lx Hotel, the center of attraction as the prime luxury hotel in the region, takes you through the history to discover in Manchester. From historical attractions to pathways that reveal unique stories, check it all out here.
In 2023, Tennessee tourism reached an all-time high with $30.6 billion in direct spending by visitors and welcomed 144 million tourists to the state, as reported by Tourism Economics and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development.
Direct visitor spending in Tennessee rose by 6.2% in 2023, continuing a trend of double-digit growth for two years, leading to a 125% recovery compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
Let’s explore some of the most fascinating historical attractions in Manchester that history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike should not miss:
Located in Coffee County, Tennessee, Old Stone Fort is considered the most complex hilltop enclosure in the South. It was likely used for ceremonial rather than defensive reasons. Today, the fort is part of Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Area.
It is believed to have been built between 80 and 550 AD during the Middle Woodland era by prehistoric Native Americans. Visitors to the Old Stone Fort can explore the remains of this incredible feat of engineering and learn about the region's Native American history.
The fort has a museum where prehistoric artifacts and exhibits highlight the daily lives, rituals, and craftsmanship of the indigenous peoples who once thrived here. The surrounding archaeological park preserves this enclosure and offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and campgrounds.
Another important chapter in Manchester history is its connection to the Trail of Tears, a tragic episode in American history. The Trail of Tears National Historic Trail goes through the Manchester area, marking the route taken by the Cherokee and other Native American tribes who were forcibly removed from their homelands in Tennessee, Alabama, and Georgia to live in present-day Oklahoma during the 1838-1839 period.
This Tears National Historic Trail serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles and suffering endured by Native Americans during this dark period. They traveled by wagon, horse, foot, or even steamboat to move.
Today, visitors can walk parts of the trail and visit nearby museums to gain insights about this forced migration and the impact it had on Native American communities. The trail not only offers a somber reflection on the past but also serves as a place for education and remembrance, helping to preserve the history and heritage of Manchester.
The history of Manchester is also closely tied to the American Civil War, a period that left a forever mark on the entire region. During the war, Manchester served as a strategic location for both Union and Confederate force due to its proximity to key supply routes. Today, several historical markers and sites around Manchester commemorate its Civil War history.
One notable site is the Coffee County Courthouse, which has stood since 1871 and played a vital role in the Civil War's aftermath. Though the original building was destroyed, the current structure is an emblem of resilience and historical significance. It stands as a witness to the trials and tribulations faced by the people of Manchester during one of the nation's most turbulent times.
Visitors can take guided tours to know The Coffee County Courthouse history and its role in shaping the town's identity.
While much of Manchester’s historical narrative is rooted in its ancient and 19th-century past, the city is also making history today. The Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, established in 2002, has become one of the most renowned music festivals in the world, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Held on a 700-acre farm just outside the city, Bonnaroo has transformed Manchester into a hub of contemporary culture and arts.
Though Bonnaroo is a relatively new addition to the area, it plays a significant role in the ongoing history of Manchester. The festival's impact on the local economy, community, and cultural landscape is profound, showcasing how modern events can shape and redefine a city’s identity over time.
From ancient Native American sites to Civil War landmarks and modern cultural festivals, Manchester offers a rich tapestry of history to discover. Each site and each story add depth to our understanding of the past, revealing the complexities and richness of Manchester's history. Anyone looking to connect with the past can take a journey through time with Manchester’s historical attractions. Plan your visit today and gain insights into the history to discover in Manchester, waiting in this charming Tennessee town.
When you visit the majestic city of Manchester, Tennessee, reserve your rooms at Lx Hotel, one of the Best Hotels in Manchester, TN. Our premium suites and lavish rooms await your presence.
1. How did Manchester, Tennessee, catch its name?
Manchester, TN, gets its name from the industrial town of Manchester, England. Before the new county was formed, a small village “Mitchellsville” existed near the proposed site for the new county seat.
2. What history does Tennessee have to tell?
Tennessee, a slave state, was the last to secede from the Union. During the Civil War, East Tennessee largely supported the Union, while West and Middle Tennessee sided with the Confederacy. Around 187,000 soldiers from Tennessee fought for the Confederacy, while about 51,000 joined the Union forces.
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