The past few weeks have focused on the Liberty community in Jackson County. Did you know that there are actually two Liberty communities in the state of Tennessee? In addition to the one in Jackson County, there is also one in Dekalb County. There are a few similarities as well as differences. First off, both communities were founded in the late 18th century. Dekalb County's Liberty was founded as part of a land grant. Jackson County's Liberty was as well. Both communities started out as rural farming communities. One major difference in the two is population. In Dekalb County, the population is approximately 300. In Jackson County however, the population is no more then 100. Another stark difference is the types of governments. Liberty in Jackson County has never been incorporated. However Liberty in Dekalb County has been, and has its own government. Both communities have had schools, stores, and places to worship. One factor that helps Dekalb's Liberty is Highway 70. This route runs right through the community. In Jackson County, one has to go into Smith County to link up with US70N. The result has led to "boom" for one, and the creation of a ghost town for the other. The people in Liberty, Tennessee have a zip code and are able to receive mail. In Jackson County, the citizens have a Granville mailing address. This fact alone has led to much confusion. While Jackson County's Liberty is still famous for agriculture, Dekalb County's is famous for much different reasons. Along Highway 70, painted on the side of a limestone bluff is a mule. The mule is known as "Allen's Bluff Mule." There are conflicting reports of who painted it. Some say a man by the name of Lavader Woodard painted it, while others say that it was intended to be an advertisement for a local stock yard. It may never be known who painted it, or what its intended purpose might be, however it is still a unique tourist attraction for the community. In Jackson County, Liberty sees tourism via folks heading to Granville. The old store and the church bell are unique to that community, and still serve as conversation pieces for people passing through. The definition of "liberty" is simple, it is to be free. When one goes to either of these beautiful rural communities, there is a sense of freedom from the hustle of the city, the air is fresher, and the sounds are more peaceful. One is taken back to a time gone by. The state of Tennessee is lucky to have two Liberty communities.
In Dekalb County, Liberty has its own courthouse.
In Jackson County, the old Carver store serves as a reminder of days gone by for "the other Liberty."
Author's Note: This is the final installment on the Liberty community of Jackson County. I hope readers and potential clients have enjoyed these articles, as much as I have writing them.
Be sure and come back next week for another Throwback Thursday courtesy of Moore Historical Consulting. Whether your need is genealogy, historic litigation, preservation assistance, or anything in between, I am here for you. Contact me today to learn more and get started.
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