Centerville offers several ways to explore its local history: at the Hickman County Courthouse and Square, you’ll find a Tennessee Civil War Trails marker and a bronze statue of Minnie Pearl. The town is also home to historic buildings, changing exhibitions and a River Park with a farmers market, boat launch and walking trails. Together, these attractions explore a range of themes, from architectural history and regional heritage to nature and food.
History at Courthouse Square
The grounds of the Hickman County Courthouse and Square are home to a Tennessee Civil War Trails marker. There is also a bronze statue of Minnie Pearl, whose full name was Sarah Ophelia Colley Cannon. The square also serves as a community gathering place: Centerville Square frequently hosts festivals, parades and other events. If you’re visiting for a particular event, check its date in advance.
Two historic buildings offer further glimpses into the past. The Historic Methodist Church/Masonic Lodge was built around 1850. It is the last surviving building in the town center from the pre-Civil War era and is privately owned. The James Buchanan Walker House was built in 1903 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places; this house is also privately owned.
The Centerville Cemetery offers another perspective on local history, with its early, separate burial grounds for African American burials. This detail differs from the monuments and buildings on the square and broadens the view of the local community’s history.
Exhibitions and Community
The Hickman County Historical Society presents changing exhibitions about local figures, topics and communities in regional history. It also houses research collections. At the Grinder’s Switch Center, special exhibitions focus on the Grand Ole Opry and country musicians Minnie Pearl, Del Reeves and Blake Shelton. The subjects range from regional history to country music.
A more recently built structure also forms part of the town’s character: the Bernard Community Center is housed in a building constructed in 1956, which now serves as a community center. It offers a different historical connection from the exhibitions and memorial sites, focusing on the building’s role in the community today.
River Park, Cave Branch and Local Experiences
Centerville River Park has a large farmers market, a boat launch on the Duck River and walking trails named after the late Mayor Jerry Dixon. The market, boat launch and trails each offer a different way to enjoy the park. Cave Branch adds a natural feature to the area: the creek is in Centerville, and a large cave lies at its mouth.
The Pink Cadillac Drive-In Theater adds another cultural element to the town’s history. It opened in 1960 and was originally known as the Bel Air Drive-In.
The National Banana Pudding Festival is a highlight for food lovers. For $10, the Puddin’ Path lets visitors sample a variety of banana pudding recipes. Prices and participation requirements may change, so check them in advance. The festival also includes a live national banana pudding competition. Since the program may change, it’s a good idea to check the latest program information before your trip.
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For the main travel overview: Hickman County.
