Smith County Attractions
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The Appalachian Center for Craft is a satellite campus of Tennessee Tech University. In addition to its hiking trails, beautiful setting and gallery, the Craft Center offers craft workshops for all skill levels in blacksmithing, clay, fibers, glass, metals and wood.


After Union Gen. Ebenezer Dumont’s troops surprised Confederate Gen. John Hunt Morgan’s command at Lebanon on May 5, 1862, Morgan’s men escaped north and rushed toward the Cumberland River. Hotly pursued, the Confederates succeeded in reaching Rome first. Luckily for them, they found the ferry was anchored on their side of the Cumberland River.


Union Gen. George Crook and his infantry brigade occupied Carthage, Tennessee in March 1863. To protect the garrison, defend the town, and secure the Cumberland River crossing for troops and supplies, he constructed a small fortification here for an artillery battery.


Carthage’s historic courthouse square was the control center of a major Federal base from 1863 to 1865 in the fight to control the Upper Cumberland River region. When Union Gen. George Crook arrived in Carthage to stay in 1863, he commandeered the courthouse for his headquarters.


The Smith County Heritage Museum displays the rich history of Smith County, its land, people, and industry. Visitors to the museum will enjoy historical displays, memorabilia, and, facts from Smith County.


As a major Cumberland River port with three landings, Carthage was strategically important to both Confederate and Union forces. The Upper Ferry and landing was located near the present Corps of Engineer boat ramp near Upper Ferry Road.


The 12,000-acre lake stretches 72 miles upstream and boasts 381 miles of shoreline, offering countless recreational activities for visitors. Miles of hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking trails surround the lake. The 6-mile Bearwaller Gap Trail has a trailhead within the campground. Other trails in the area include the Turkey Creek Nature Trail and Bear Wheels Trail.

The Cornerstone Cafe is a family restaurant located on Main Street in the town of Gordonsville, TN.
Take it from an online reviewer:
"Cornerstone is great! They have Roy Carver style pizza, and it is delicious!!! Add a small cup of Roy's bbq sauce and it completes the flavor. Little pricier than Pizza Hut, but it is worth it for the quality of food that you are getting."


Built in 1904, the Walton Hotel has been restored to its glory days being a favorite stop over since 1900. The Hotel rooms offer a unique step backin time while providing modern convenience. The Restaurant is open seven days a week and they pride themselves on their delicious southern cooking and friendly service.