About

History of Macon County, Tennessee

Established in 1842 from portions of Smith and Sumner counties, Macon County was named in honor of North Carolina statesman Nathaniel Macon and quickly became a vital agricultural hub in the Upper Cumberland. The county gained national prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as Red Boiling Springs transformed into a premier health resort, drawing thousands to rekindle the past through its legendary medicinal mineral waters. Today, Macon County remains a testament to “Another Time in Tennessee,” preserving its vintage spirit through its historic town squares, rolling farmland, and an enduring legacy of rural hospitality.

Winding Stairs

Adventure at Your Own Pace

In Macon County, adventure isn’t about the fastest route—it’s about the most scenic one. Whether you are lacing up your boots to explore the breathtaking cascades and limestone bluffs of Winding Stairs Nature Park or taking a quiet stroll across the historic covered bridges of Red Boiling Springs, you set the tempo. For those who prefer the view from the driver’s seat, our winding backroads offer a “vintage mystique” that turns every mile into a discovery of rolling farmlands and hidden agritourism gems like Red Barn Winery. From the energetic pulse of our local sports complexes to the meditative stillness of a shaded hiking trail, we invite you to explore at the speed of life. Here, the journey is just as rewarding as the destination, and there’s always a spot on a veranda waiting for you when you’re ready to simply sit and soak it all in.

Downtown Lafayette & Red Boiling Springs

Stories

Discover the rich history and vibrant community of Downtown Lafayette & Red Boiling Springs through our local stories. From tales of early settlers to modern-day adventures, our blogs capture the essence of life in our area.

  • Macon County

    Stories and Folktales – A Deadly Rattlesnake Bite

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  • Hartsville, Tennessee

    Stories and Folktales – Lafayette’s Planned Invasion of Hartsville?

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  • Winding Stairs

    Stories and Folktales – The Liberty Graverobber

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  • Stories and Folktales – Capture on the Square

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  • Paratroopers Landing

    Bratton’s Community

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  • Red Boiling Springs Post Office, 100 Main Street (1918-1919)

    Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee: Some Pre and Early History of This Historic Resort Town

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  • The Underground Railroad in Macon County, TN

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  • Remembering June 23, 1969 — The Flood

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  • Rita Coolidge Music Pathway Marker

    The Soundtrack of the Square: Lafayette’s Legendary Voices

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  • Winding Stairs

    Beyond the Pavement: Exploring the Natural Bluffs and Backroads of Macon County

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