MTSU Center for Historic Preservation

The Heritage Center of Murfreesboro and Rutherford County

Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area

The Heritage Center of Murfreesboro and Rutherford County

The Heritage Center of Murfreesboro and Rutherford County explores the area's rich history, including the Civil War era, through exhibits and public programs and serves as a learning laboratory for MTSU students. Students completed an online version of the new music exhibit.

Tennessee Century Farms

Since 1985, the Center for Historic Preservation has honored the dedication and contributions of families who have owned and farmed the same land for at least 100 years. More than 1,800 farms have been recognized, with at least one farm in each of Tennessee's counties. Shown here is the Rial Farm in HIckman County.

Teaching with Primary Sources

Teaching with Primary Sources--Middle Tennessee State University, a program of the Library of Congress administered for Tennessee educators by the CHP, holds workshops across the state for K-12 teachers and librarians. Summer institutes link primary sources with historic sites.

Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area

As a program of the Center for Historic Preservation, Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area provides leadership and support to organizations across the state, creating opportunities for education, interpretation, preservation, and economic development.

Preservation Guides

We have several preservation guides that provide hands-on tips and historical background essays for resources in historic African American communities and along the Trail of Tears.

Partnership with the Clay County Courthouse

Following up on our 2011 Heritage Development Plan for the Clay County Courthouse (1873), we will be working with the Upper Cumberland Development District and community members to create exhibit panels for the building as it transitions to a Culture and Welcome Center.

Recent Blog Posts Highlight Diverse Histories

In a recent post on Revisiting Montana's Historic Landscape, Dr. Van West shares some spectacular images from vast Beaverhead County, Montana, and emphasizes the significance of transportation there. On Southern Rambles, Lydia Simpson recounts her recent visit to Oak Ridge, Tennessee, to assist the community in preserving the Secret City.

Creating a Driving Tour for the Soulsville Neighborhood

CHP staff and students have recently launched several projects with partners in Memphis as that city seeks to use its heritage for greater cultural and economic development. Among the projects will be a driving tour of the Soulsville neighborhood, which includes Centenary United Methodist Church.