See 100 Years of Tennessee History at Cannonsburgh Village

Need a free, educational getaway in the great outdoors? Historic Cannonsburgh Village is a hop, skip and a jump away from Nashville, TN. It’s sure to give you an appreciation for modern-day amenities and the pioneers that paved the way for the conveniences we have today. It’s one of the many hidden gems in Murfreesboro, TN. Don’t miss it!

What is Cannonsburgh Village?

If you need a break from screen time and a fun, free outdoor space where the kids can run around and learn something in the process, stop by Cannonsburgh Village.

Cannonsburgh Village represents 100 years of Tennessee history from 1830 to 1930. You’ll get a healthy appreciation for modern-day conveniences on a self-guided tour through the grounds. Several buildings and exhibits represent the way people lived back then.

For instance, it was fun for us to compare the size of a smart phone to a phone line operator’s desk while we were there. The kids didn’t even know what a phone line was in our convenient world of wireless everything.

Where is Cannonsburgh Village located?

Cannonsburgh Village is located 30 minutes southeast of Nashville in Murfreesboro, TN. You’ll find it tucked away behind the busy intersection of Broad and Front streets.

The Murfreesboro Greenway runs right by the park entrance. It’s an excellent place to bring a bicycle and a picnic lunch. It’s also a safe place where you can let the kids run ahead of you without getting too far into mischief.

What Attractions Can You See at Cannonsburgh Village?

Cannonsburgh Village is a picturesque location that is popular with local photographers. We saw a few photo shoots in progress and were pleased to find a few hour’s worth of unique things to see. As you first enter the grounds, you will see an old Grist Mill on your right.

A grist mill is a facility that grinds grain into flour. This particular mill had a water wheel, seen on the right. The flow of water powered the grinder inside the mill house.

Each attraction has an informational sign posted and we took turns reading about each building. It’s great for kids to learn about things like this. They just see me buying flour at the grocery store and have no idea where it comes from. Things weren’t so easy back then.

There is a large windmill in the center of the village with a water well. We also got a good look inside a loom house, which was a one-room log cabin from the early 1800’s with a hand loom inside. A hand loom is a human-powered device used to weave cloth. It is in use during special events at the village. We also got to see the inside of a blacksmith’s shop.

What Are the Kid Favorites at Cannonsburgh Village?

The kids got a big kick out of seeing a vintage school house, a phone operator’s house and an old-school doctor’s office. They got to climb on the back of an old train caboose. And of course, an outhouse was among one of their favorite discoveries.

Cannonsburgh Village also houses the World’s Largest Cedar Bucket! It’s six feet tall and holds 1,566 gallons. It’s something you don’t get to see every day, that’s for sure.

You can also gain an appreciation for modern-day farming technology by visiting two large sheds full of antique farming implements. There is also an indoor museum with several historical items like an antique piano, typewriter and other relics specific to the Murfreesboro area.

Are There Activities at Cannonsburgh Village?

If you are visiting in the summer, you will appreciate the modern-day air conditioning inside the art building. You will also find local artists at work. We had a chat with a woman as she made new pieces of jewelry and we observed the walls, full of artwork available for purchase.

The artists invited the boys to sit down at the table and draw pictures. They really enjoyed that. It was nice to sit and take a break from the heat and visit with people from the community.

Several events are held on the historic grounds at Cannonsburgh throughout the year. Regular Community yard sales, cultural festivals, Food Truck Fridays, Pioneer Days, the Harvest Festival and Concerts and Cruise-In Nights to name a few. The historic Wedding Chapel is also available for weddings.

When is Cannonsburgh Village Open?

The grounds at Cannonsburgh Village are open year round, however some of the buildings are closed during the off season.

The official season at Cannonsburgh Village is May through December. Visit the Cannonsburgh website for more details and contact information to plan ahead for your visit. School tours and event space is available by reservation.

Another great resource for event information and pictures is the Friends of Cannonsburgh Facebook page.

Are There Modern Amenities at Cannonsburgh Village?

There are bathroom facilities on-site, so you won’t have to use the outhouse. And the Visitor Center sells light refreshments, souvenirs and offers a nice front porch for sitting. We enjoyed ice cream bars on the porch before we headed home.

So if you’re looking for a fun, eye-opening outing with the family that’s rich in experience and low in cost, Cannonsburgh Village is for you.