Murfreesboro Mayor W. Hollis Westbrooks had a dream in 1974 to turn a rundown section of our fair city into something the townsfolk could be proud of, have festivals in, and tourists would come to and reminisce at some of the history surrounding our daily lives.

His intention, primarily, was for a project for the American Revolution Bicentennial. Thus was born Cannonsburgh Village, which received an award as one of the top 16 Bicentennial projects in the entire United States. The monies received for this honor was used to buy and move buildings from throughout the midsouth to be placed in this city park.

The Village opened in 1976, and is owned today by the City of Murfreesboro, and maintained by the Parks and Recreation Department. Over 20 cabins and buildings occupy the park, dating back to the 1820s. Many of the buildings have the original furnishings, over 60 weddings a year are held in the old Williamson Chapel, the park has the first iron bridge built in Rutherford County, a 175-year-old grist mill that still works, and is the site of the annual “Uncle Dave Macon Days” the second weekend in July, which thousands of people attend, and Christmas at Cannonsburgh in December. The rustic, peaceful setting has been site to movies, music videos and undoubtedly, many marriage proposals throughout its 32-year existence. There are even stories of a few ghosts lurking within its confines.

Although a city park and open 365 days a year for walking through or just having lunch at a picnic table, the buildings are closed during the winter months for maintenance and refurbishing. It is difficult to keep the old buildings rustic, looking good, and polished, yet keeping them looking their age at the same time.

Saturday, April 19, begins the 32nd year for Cannonsburgh Village, with the Pioneer Days Festival set for entertaining storytelling and a little clogging on the side. Admission is free, and the event lasts from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Points of Interests include: the buildings themselves, open to the public and inspection; traditional handicrafts; lye soap making; a civil war encampment; quilting; music; Tennessee storytellers (all day!); the Stones River Antique Car Show; Blacksmith demonstrations; Shacklett’s Photography display of Old Murfreesboro; 1810 Longhunter Camp; the Murfreesboro Art League Show; and so much more!

Cannonsburgh is located on South Front Street behind the Broad Street Shoneys and Sticks ’n’ Stuff Furniture. Call (615) 890-0355 for more information.

Pioneer Days Schedule?April 19

11 a.m. & 2 p.m.?June LaGreen as Harriet Tubman