In the nineteenth century, Nashville’s strategic location along the Cumberland River made it a major rail hub. Due to this growth, the town was briefly separated from the rest of Tennessee during the American Civil War, becoming the first Confederate state capital to fall to Union forces. Following the war, Nashville reclaimed its position, and the area was a bustling manufacturing center. Today, Nashville has a population of nearly 1 million. Here are some interesting facts about the city’s history.
Nashville is a music mecca. Despite being a city filled with music and country legends, Nashville is a unique blend of streetwear and country style. You’ll want to grab a pair of authentic Nashville cowboy boots. These are well-crafted, made to last, and come with buy one get one deals. If you’re looking for souvenirs, Nashville has plenty of unique boutiques where you can pick up a pair or two.
While it’s well known as the capital of country music, the city has more to offer tourists. Aside from good food, warm weather, and inexpensive living, Nashville is home to a wide variety of artists. Rockers like Jack White and the Black Keys have made Nashville their home, and country-folk legend John Prine shares an office with country wrecker Sturgill Simpson. And don’t forget to try Nashville’s famous hot chicken.
For nature lovers, the city offers a beautiful setting for a trip to the Nashville Wildlife Sanctuary. This nonprofit organization offers hiking trails, fun house activities, and a corn maze. You can even purchase pumpkins to craft or eat in a picnic tent on the grounds. Whether you’re traveling with children or a couple, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The wildlife sanctuary’s mission is to preserve animals and restore ecosystems, while reigniting the public’s interest in the environment.
The city’s urban development has also ushered in a boom in new skyscrapers. Two construction booms in Nashville have occurred since 2000, one prior to the Great Recession and one after it. According to Emporis, a high-rise building is one that is at least 115 feet tall. At this time, 24 of Nashville’s 37 tall towers have been completed. However, the construction boom is not over yet – many more are currently under construction.
While the city’s antebellum period saw some notable events, the Battle of Nashville is perhaps most significant. As the largest tactical victory in the Civil War, the Battle of Nashville marked the end of a decade of American Civil War history. Despite the fact that Nashville is not yet served by Amtrak, its Union Station once served as an important intercity rail hub, serving both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. The Union forces captured Nashville in 1862 and occupied the city for the remainder of the war.
Aside from music, the city’s culinary scene is also renowned. The city has several restaurants and a thriving nightlife scene, and you can enjoy Indie Rock concerts in the area near the Country Music Hall of Fame. Jazz is also widely available at many of the city’s bars. Although other major cities have vibrant music scenes, Nashville’s blend of history and modernity sets it apart from the rest of the country. Whether you’re a fan of bluegrass or Indie Rock, you’ll find a music scene here that suits you perfectly.