History & Culture
Historic village of nearly 55 structures original and replicated with local historical significance, and two new barns coming soon! Witness what life was like in the 1800’s for a resident of Wilson County. Self-guided and guided tours available for both individuals and groups. For special tour requests, please call: 615-547-6111.
Watertown is located 40 miles east of Nashville and 10 miles southeast of Lebanon on Highway 70 (also known as Sparta Pike). To get to Watertown from Interstate 40, take exit 239A and travel south/south-east for nine miles. Watertown is on the left side of the Highway, and you will see several signs indicating the turn off of the highway. The first turn off is at the edge of town, and leads straight down scenic main street and past the Watertown schools to the town square. The next left turns will all lead you into Watertown and to Main Street. The final left turn before you leave Watertown is marked by our landmark orange and white Jewell’s Market.
Walk through history of Lebanon from prehistoric to modern times. Audio descriptions by famous residents introduce visitors to the periods on display and take advantage of the touch-screen computers for your own research. Hours are Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. In a joint effort with Cumberland University special group tours will be held each Sunday between July 15 and October 7. Tours will be held from 1:00pm to 4:00pm and admission is FREE although donations are appreciated.
A great way to learn more about our history is to explore the Tennessee Civil War Trails! This historic marker program identifies and interprets both the great campaigns as well as the lesser-known Civil War places. The Trail includes interpretive markers and an online statewide driving tour, and links Tennessee’s sites to Trails programs in Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland and North Carolina.
The Wilson County Archives were established in 1995. The archives are operated by the county government which appointed the Public Records Commission to oversee the operation. Hours of operation are from 9am to 3pm Monday through Friday.
Fite/Fessenden House built in the Federal style now holds artifacts from Wilson County\’s 200-year history. Free admission. Open Sundays 1pm-4pm. or by appointment.
