The Valleyist Papers
A COLLECTION OF ESSAYS WRITTEN IN FAVOUR OF THE IMPROVEMENT OF STEPHENS VALLEY
Author – William Ray
Edition 3. Issue 05.
Tennessee SR-1 Highway: Tracing the Routes of Time
It is likely a rare day, for any of us in SV, when we do not travel on The Tennessee 100 Highway, also known as TN-100. We normally enter TN-100 via Pasquo Road, and the eastbound portion stretches from our neighborhood into downtown Nashville...and well beyond. In that stretch it is called by many names. It is TN-100, Highway 70S, Harding Pike, West End Avenue, and, finally, Broadway, just to get from here to downtown. But, as soon as TN-100 merges with TN-70S, it is actually The Memphis-Bristol Highway, or TN Highway 1, it its original iteration.
Its historical significance lies in its role as Tennessee’s first state owned/built highway, a part of the original Natchez Trace, an ancient trail used by Native Americans and later by European settlers. This trail, now replaced by modern roads, was crucial for trade and communication between the Mississippi River and the eastern United States. The original SR-1 stretched 539 miles from the southwest corner (Memphis) to the southeasternmost corner (Bristol) of Tennessee.
The SR-1 highway's development reflects Tennessee's growth and modernization. It has become a vital artery for commuters, businesses, and travelers, linking Nashville's vibrant urban center with suburban areas and beyond. Moreover, its scenic route showcases Tennessee's natural beauty, passing by the Warner Parks, rolling hills, picturesque farmlands, and historic sites, making it a popular route for tourists exploring the state.
Memphis: Gateway to the South
Memphis, often referred to as the "Home of the Blues" and the "Birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll," holds a prominent place in American music history. Its strategic location on the Mississippi River made it a hub for trade and culture, shaping its unique identity. Highways like I-40 and I-55 converge in Memphis, connecting the city to major regions across the country.
The history of Memphis highways intertwines with the city's cultural tapestry. Beale Street, synonymous with blues music, runs through the heart of downtown Memphis, paralleling the Mississippi River. This iconic street, once a bustling center for African American culture and commerce, is now a vibrant entertainment district, attracting visitors from around the world.
Bristol: Where Country Music Was Born
Bristol, located in the northeastern corner of Tennessee, holds a special place in the annals of country music history. In 1927, Ralph Peer, a record producer, organized recording sessions in Bristol that would change the course of music forever. These sessions, known as the "Bristol Sessions," featured artists like the Carter Family and Jimmie Rodgers, laying the foundation for modern country music.
Highways like US-11E and US-421 connect Bristol to nearby cities and states, facilitating trade and travel. The legacy of the Bristol Sessions is celebrated through the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, which honors the city's musical heritage and its impact on American culture.
The connection between the music born in Memphis and country music, born in Bristol, is the most important connection if the music of our country, and we live right along that connection – actually right in the middle of it! Nashville has become the point where all music merges.
The Interconnected Tapestry of Tennessee's Highways
The highways crisscrossing Tennessee form a metaphorical tapestry, weaving together the state's diverse landscapes, industries, and communities. They serve as conduits for commerce, and cultural exchange, fostering connections that transcend geographic boundaries.
Moreover, these highways symbolize Tennessee's ongoing evolution, adapting to technological advancements and changing societal needs. Investments in infrastructure and transportation continue to enhance connectivity and accessibility, driving economic growth and enhancing quality of life for residents.
In conclusion, the Tennessee SR-1, Memphis to Bristol highways are not just concrete pathways; they are threads in the intricate fabric of Tennessee's history and identity, and for that matter, the musical history of our country. As these highways continue to evolve and expand, they will carry forward the legacy of the past while paving the way for a brighter future. All of us in SV stand to witness this evolution!
Now that we know more about the Memphis-Bristol Highway, here is how we can use it in the coming weeks to attend cool regional events:
May 2 Cheekwood Thursday Night Out Our own Les Sabler kicks off the Cheekwood TNO season with his smooth jazz art
May 5 Pink Floyd Tribute with Nashville Symphony at Ascend Amphitheatre
May 9 Cheekwood Thursday Night Out - The High-Jivers
May 9 SV Community Cornhole Night 6:00 - 8:00
May 10-11 Middle Tennessee Strawberry Festival Portland Tennessee
May 14 Stevie Nicks Bridgestone Arena
May 16 Cheekwood Thursday Night Out – Imperial Blues Hour
May 18 First SV Jammin’ Event!!! (More about this later)
May 18 Middle Tennessee Cornbread Festival https://www.facebook.com/events/729776665311775/
May 18 Forever Abbey Road Franklin Theatre - Forever Abbey Road
May 23 Cheekwood Thursay Night Out – Paul Childers
May 25 Stephens Valley Pool Opening Day
May 26 SV Community Pickleball 3:00 - 5:00
May 30 Jerry Seinfeld TPAC
June 12 An Evening with James Taylor Bridgestone Arena
June 15 RC Cola – Moonpie Festival RC Cola – MoonPie Festival – Bell Buckle Chamber of Commerce
June 15 SV BBQ and Bluegrass Day (with fireworks!)
June 21 Full Moon Picking Party https://warnerparks.org/events/category/benefit-events/full-moon-pickin-party/
July 13 Murfreesboro Hot Chicken Festival
July 19 Full Moon Picking Party https://warnerparks.org/events/category/benefit-events/full-moon-pickin-party/
July 20 SV Dive-In Movie Night
August 10 Peach Cobbler Festival https://allevents.in/murfreesboro/3rd-annual-peach-cobbler-festival/200026120118621?ref=eventlist-cat
August 10 Chattanooga Margarita Festival Chattanooga Margarita Festival — Chattanooga Festivals
August 16 Full Moon Picking Party https://warnerparks.org/events/category/benefit-events/full-moon-pickin-party/
August 24 Apple Pie Festival At The Little Red Orchard Apple Pie Festival - Rickman, TN (stepoutside.org)
August 24 SV Songwriter Night
August 31 Monroe County (Kentucky) Watermelon Festival Tompkinsville, KY
September 7 Middle Tennessee Fried Pickle Festival https://allevents.in/murfreesboro/200025664344834?ref=sharer
There are a lot more, but the links get a little iffy, further out than this. Stay tuned to upcoming issues of The Valleyist for updates to the list of entertainment opportunities right here in our state and neighborhood!
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