Museums & History

Founded in 1784 near the confluence of the Cumberland and Red Rivers, Clarksville was established even before Tennessee County separated from North Carolina and declared its statehood. Learn about our history and heritage through some of the people and places that tell our story best. Spend time at historic sites like those below or follow the African American Legacy, Heritage, or Civil War Trails on the Visit Clarksville TN App. You'll find some fascinating people there who are eager to share Clarksville's unique stories.

You'll also get a good sense of the city's history by simply walking around and soaking in the historic architecture that's been carefully preserved since the antebellum era. Stoll the Cumberland Riverwalk and reflect on the commerce and natural beauty that built our city and made it into what it is today.

Wander through Greenwood and Riverview Cemeteries and find markers for Revolutionary War and Civil War heroes, along with famous Clarksville Connections -- men and women who changed government, education, literature, business, medicine, and the arts.

See our timeline of significant historical events.