Sam Davis Home – History of A Hometown Hero
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Remnants of history can be found all over Middle Tennessee and Smyrna is no exception. Like a square in the patchwork quilt of this states’ history the Sam Davis Homeis a piece of the Civil War that has survived the passage of time. Built in 1810 on the picturesque banks of Stewart’s Creek the Davis family home is a perfect example of plantation living in the upper middle class of the 1800’s.
The family home of Sam Davis sits on 160 acres, bought by the state of Tennessee in 1927 and opened for tours in 1930. 82 years of guided glimpses into the past have not diminished the natural beauty of the land or the home. The vast majority of items and settings you will see in the antebellum home are from the 1850’s, when the Davis family did extensive renovations to the Greek-Revival house. The original log cabin still sits on the property as well. The historically accurate living-museum showcases many original items from Sam Davis, a Civil War soldier who was captured, accused of spying, and hanged on November 27, 1863. Dubbed the “boy hero of the civil war” Sam Davis was given was last opportunity to reveal the sources of his information and escape the noose. He is said to have stated:
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“I would die a thousand deaths before I would betray a friend.”
A popular spot for photographers, weddings, social functions and paranormal investigations this beautiful home does a fantastic job of paying homage to a time our country was changing so vastly it seems astonishing that a perfect example of daily life was able to be preserved. If you visit this piece of history in Smyrna, Tennessee be prepared to long for a time when life may have been harder… but sure seemed simpler.
Posted by: 
Jennifer McClarney
