Centerville, Tennessee

Santa Claus Visits Centerville, Tennessee

2011-12-16T15:31:00.000-08:00

Once again, Santa Claus will visit Centerville, TN aboard the Grinder's Switch Express train. The train will arrive on December 17, 2011 at 10:00 at the old Centerville Armory. Drawings will be held for toy trains and other goodies. Be there and have a good time.

Centerville, Tennessee Christmas Parade 2011

2011-11-19T19:47:00.001-08:00

The Centerville, TN Christmas parade has been scheduled for Saturday night on December 3. The event will begin at 6:00 p.m. and will follow the usual route with the participants lining up at the Centerville Church of Christ parking lot and circling the Centerville Square. This is usually a big event in Hickman County, Tennessee..

The theme for this year's parade is "Toyland." Since the parade is at night, lighting on the floats is encouraged.

Those wanting to participate must register. You can do so by calling Rob Mitchell at 729-5941 or emailing him at ramitchell6639@yahoo.com.

According to the November 21 edition of the Hickman County Times, float riders may distribute candy but can only do on the side of the floats.

Come on and have a good time!

Pigs Are Flying In Centerville, Tennessee

2011-10-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

I must be dreaming. But, I just saw in the October 10, 2011 edition of the Hickman County Times that the residents of Centerville Tennessee voted to allow a package liquor store to open. Knowing the history of Centerville, it surprises me, but I thought that there was a chance that it could happen.

Let me say that I don't drink and I have seen the problems that liquor can cause families - from broken homes to car wrecks. But, I am not going to argue that it shouldn't be allowed. Because I believe that a responsible adult should be allowed to drink in his own home as long as it is not harming someone else.

There is the problem. It seems that when some people drink, they think they are indestructible and that they can drive.

What surprises me is that only 19.6% voted and it passed with 71% (351 voters) of those voting; 29% (144 voters) voted no. It amazes that no more than that voted. That is another topic for another day.

But, for today, lets just say that the devil needs a coat.

Quilt Show, Car Show, Banana Pudding Festival, Oh My!

2011-09-27T08:44:00.000-07:00

This is the weekend for the Centerville In The Fall Car Show, The Quilt Show, and the Banana Pudding Festival in Centerville in Hickman County in Tennessee. Each of these events have their own websites or Facebook pages where you can find out all the information. Check them out.

http://bananapuddingfest.org/

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=155602921125692

http://www.hickmanco.org/component/content/article/186-hickman-co-quilt-show

I will be there at the various activities throughout the day. If you see me, say hello.

Hickman County, Tennessee - The Place To Be!

2011-09-05T07:02:00.000-07:00

The Centerville, TN square is the place to be Saturday, September 10th starting at 10:00 a.m. The annual Grinder's Switch Music and Arts Festival promises to be bigger and better this year. Most of the booth spaces have been rented, however there are a few remaining. There will be plenty of music throughout the day. There will also be plenty of food that should satisfy any appetite. For more information, you can contact the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce at (931) 729-5774 or visit their website http://www.hickmanco.org for information aboujt all of the upcoming events.

Drew Luckett Memorial Golf Tournament

2011-08-16T17:57:00.000-07:00

The ninth annual Drew Luckett Memorial Golf Tournament will be held Saturday, August 20, 2011 at the Skyview Country Club in Centerville, TN.. Tee off is at 8:00. The proceeds go to a scholarship for a Hickman County Student.

Spaghetti Supper to Support Hickman County Bulldogs

2011-08-13T12:03:00.000-07:00

Come meet the players and Coach Rewis! The Hickman County Bulldog Quarterback Club is hosting a spaghetti supper on August 18, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $6.00 per person and can be purchased at the door. The supper is being held in the Hickman County High School cafeteria in Centerville, Tennessee and will help the quarterback club provide meals for the Bulldog football players prior to the games. Come on out and show your support the Bulldogs.

Good Morning, Hickman County TN Students!

2011-07-12T17:33:00.000-07:00

The Hickman County Tennessee School Board has made a few changes to the school calendar this year. The Hickman County Schools in Centerville and Lyles will begin on Friday, August 5, 2011. This is a change because usually the first day is only a 1/2 day. This year it is a full day.

Students will not get a fall break as they usually do, but instead will be off the entire week of Thanksgiving. They will only get two days for spring break instead of the whole week. This is to allow more instruction time before the standardized TCAP test that the students are required to take each year. To view the entire school year calendar, you can visit the Hickman County Schools website.

Banana Pudding Festival In Centerville, TN

2011-06-11T08:38:00.000-07:00

The date has been set for the Hickman County's Banana Pudding Festival has been set. It will be held October 1, 2011 at the Grinder's Switch Ag Pavilion just outside of Centerville. Last year was the first year of what I hope will be many for the festival. Someone estimated that over 3,000 people attended the event.

Last year's event coincided with the Car Show and the Quilt show. I have not heard whether they all will be on the same day or not. However, it makes sense if they do. It provides a chance for a lot of tourists to visit Hickman County.

I will keep you informed and maybe it won't be too long, before I find out.

KKK On Centerville, TN Square

2011-03-19T19:33:00.000-07:00

I never thought I would see it. It always happened somewhere else. Not in my hometown. We are above that. But today there they were, covered up just like roaches hiding in the dark.

I started not to write anything about them because I don't want to give them the publicity that they want. But as Edmund Burke said "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing."

I consider myself a good man and I may not be able to do much, but if this blog can shed light on the injustices that continue today then I will do my part. I do not agree with what the KKK stands for, but as an American, I agree that they have the right to free speech - just as I do.

I am sorry that my friends witnessed today's display of ignorance, but this should serve as a reminder to all that there is still plenty of work to be done.

I don't see many problems in Hickman County and Centerville between the races. Are some there? Probably. But, what I see is everyone here concerned about the economy and jobs and the wars we are fighting - not whether someone is black or white.

I copied a picture off of Facebook that a friend of mine made and started to post it here, but I changed my mind because everyone knows what a roach looks like.

Snow Again and Again

2011-02-07T19:42:00.000-08:00

WOW! It snowed again today in Hickman County. I don't know how many times it has snowed so far this year, but the weathermen are predicting another snowstorm for Wednesday evening into Thursday. The school system only has two more days that they can miss before they start taking Spring Break days. The roads in Centerville, TN are clear though. I guess the temperature was warm enough before the snowfall that it didn't stick to the roads. However, just to be safe, schools were dismissed 2.5 hours early.

I don't know if all school systems have the automatic calling system to let you know what is going on at the school, but Hickman County started it about three years ago and I really like it. I usually receive a text message on my cell phone, an email, and a phone call on my home phone. They make sure that I am aware of the situation. I think it is one of the best ideas in a long time.

Fish Camp Reopening in Centerville

2011-01-13T13:52:00.000-08:00

Eight months after the flood that completely destroyed so many houses and businesses in Middle Tennessee and Hickman County, Fish Camp Restaurant is reopening today. I know that it has been a long road for the owners and workers. The picture that is attached is from the Fish Camp Page on Facebook. I hope they don't mind that I "stole" it, but at least I am giving them a "plug."

If you are ever in Centerville, TN and are in the mood for fish, this is a good place to eat. This is not to say that there are not plenty of other good places to eat, because there are. This is just a way of helping out. I hope for them the best in the new year and beyond.

Snow Again?

2011-01-12T12:25:00.000-08:00

I have just been sitting here and decided to post on this blog. I haven't in the new year. Sometimes it is hard to think of what to say. In a small town, it is not always easy to come up with new ideas.

In case you didn't know it, Hickman County, Tennessee has already had another snow fall. I only mention this because it is unusual for us to receive that much snow. It was about 3 inches on my deck. The entire south received quite a bit of snow. I am tired of snow already and am ready for Spring to arrive.

I watched the Weather Channel the other day and the weatherman said that the reason that we were having this snow storm was because of....global warming. Apparently, there is a high pressure system near the arctic that is pushing the jet stream way to the south. Well, it can just stop being a bully and let the cold air go back where it is supposed to be - in the North. I have had enough cold weather in Centerville, TN already this year.

Happy New Year From Centerville, Tennessee

2010-12-31T07:47:00.000-08:00

Whew, I am glad that this year is over. As a Realtor, it has been a tough year. Although I had several sales that I am thankful for, it could have been better. I can tell that the real estate market is beginning to improve, and it is about time.

The news media will give you their top ten of the year and the first decade of the 21st century. I, however, will just wish you a Happy New Year from my house in Centerville, Tennessee in Hickman County.

I will also remind you that if you or someone you know is looking for a house or want to sell yours, give me a call and I will be glad to help you out. You can check out my website http://www.HickmanCountyRealEstate.com for more information.

The Train To Grinder's Switch Is Running Right On Time!

2010-12-10T19:11:00.000-08:00

Santa Claus is coming to Centerville, TN on a train on Saturday, November 11 at 10:00 a.m. For several years, this has been an exciting event for the children of Hickman County. Come on out and enjoy the fun.

Centerville Selected To Participate In Program

2010-12-08T12:23:00.000-08:00

Matt Kisber, the Economic and Community Development Commissioner in Tennessee announced that Centerville has been chosen as one of 12 communities to participate in a community development program. You can read the full announcement by Kisber at https://news.tennesseeanytime.org/node/6440 .

Revitalization is a good idea, but if the organizations that are charged with community improvement would get some jobs in Hickman County, revitalization would take care of itself. It doesn't matter how many places there are to spend money, if you have to go outside of the county to work you will spend your money on your way to and from work.

I believe that Hickman County should have organizations that try to improve the county, but what is there to show for it. In today's economic climate, we cannot afford to wait for business to come to us, the people in charge must go out and find it.

Fish Camp Update In Centerville

2010-11-26T18:44:00.000-08:00

I have received several inquires about Fish Camp Restaurant lately. As most of you know, Centerville as well as most of Middle Tennessee was flooded on May 1 and 2 of this year. By some official estimates by The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, Hickman County received as much as 18 inches of rain over the two day period. If you haven't seen the pictures, you can click on the archives of this blog and view many of the Centerville area.

Well, I have some good news to report. Fish Camp will open during the next few weeks. I haven't heard an exact date, but according to some "reliable sources" it will be soon. I am including a picture of the new building.

Thanks to the ones that have kept up with us in Hickman County and that read my blog. I know I only update about once every week or two, but there is not usually that much to spread the word about. If any of you have anything that you would like me to cover, you can comment or email me: paul.taylor@crye-leike.com or call me: (931) 670-5316. It may take me a few days, but I will get to it.

2010 Christmas Parade In Centerville, TN

2010-11-18T10:10:00.000-08:00

The Centerville, TN Christmas Parade in Hickman County will be held on Saturday, December 4 at 6:00 p.m. The route will be the same as in years past - beginning and ending at the Centerville Church of Christ.

For more information, or to register to be in the parade, contact Rob Mitchell at (931) 729-5491 or email him at ramitchell6639@yahoo.com .

Centerville Grocery Store Closing

2010-10-26T13:07:00.000-07:00

After about 60 years in business, a local grocery store is closing on November 7, 2010. Donna's Cee Bee is the latest casualty of the recession in Centerville. The store has changed hands several times during its history, but this time it is closing.

Channel 5 in Nashville carried a story about the local business. You can view it here

One only needs to take a look around the town to see the that the recent past has not been kind. There are plenty of vacant buildings around the Centerville, TN Square. Many are in disrepair and are perhaps casualties of the American appetite for cheap China-made goods that one finds in the big box stores. Over the last few years, many of the older stores have closed and some that just moved in a few years ago have already closed.

Until jobs return to the smaller towns, store closings will continue to be common. It has been that way in Hickman County and Centerville and probably most small towns for years. With Donna's closing, there will be twelve more people that need a job that is not here.

Tennessee Crossroads in Centerville, TN

2010-10-22T20:56:00.000-07:00

Centerville has been featured on the local PBS show Tennessee Crossroads. The Grinder's Switch Hour, carried live by Country KIX 96 radio station on Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m., is showcased during one of the segments of the show. The segment has been uploaded to Youtube.com and can be viewed at this link. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_YQsr93tyo

Centerville, located in Hickman County, was the birthplace of Minnie Pearl, the comedienne of the Grand Ole Opry.

A Little Disappointed!

2010-10-13T13:06:00.001-07:00

I tried hard not to write this blog entry; I waited several days before I finally decided to.

This past Saturday was a fund raiser for the victims of the "Great Flood" in May. It was billed as "Saturday Night In Hickman County." I suppose this was a reference to the Johnny Cash song by the same name. The concert was held at the Ag pavilion in Grinders Switch - home of Minnie Pearl. Several local acts were performing there and then there was the Crickets - as in Buddy Holly and the Crickets. The drummer, J. I. Allison lives in Lyles, just up the road from Centerville in Hickman County.

Signs were in most business windows around. The information was passed around on Facebook; it was on the radio. So what happened? Where were the people? It only cost $5 to enter and then you could give a donation. I don't know how many showed up throughout the day, but for the Cricket concert, there were only a few hundred.

People in small towns generally don't have a lot of money and perhaps it was too close to the Banana Pudding Festival the week before - at the same location. It drew thousands.

Perhaps it was too long of a day - I only came a couple hours before the Crickets. But, the acts that I heard were great and gave performances fit for an audience of thousands. Thanks to all of the acts that performed, all of the volunteers, and all that came out. I wish more had.

Banana Pudding Festival Winner

2010-10-07T20:27:00.000-07:00

The winner of the Banana Pudding Festival in Hickman County, Tennessee is... You can read about the winner on her blog about the festival. Centerville, TN and Grinder's Switch was the place to be. If you missed it, you missed a treat (pun intended).

What a Day In Centerville, TN

2010-10-03T08:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a busy day in Hickman County. Usually in small towns, people seem to complain that there is not much to do, however, if you were anywhere near Centerville, Tennessee you knew something was going on. People were everywhere.

While my wife, George Ann was at the quilt show, I started out at the Car Show at theHickman County Justice Center. Even though this has been held for over two decades, I have never taken the time to go there. I know how to put gas in and change the oil. That's about it. But, walking by and seeing these cars - many from years ago - really was fun. I liked the '56 T-bird convertible and the Austin Healy (that is the one Jill had on Home Improvement.). There were lots of Corvettes that I would get a ticket in if I owned one. And there were plenty of trucks. Some of the vehicles looked as though they were handled with "kids gloves."

Next, we - my youngest son Zack and I - walked to the quilt show. A lady at the door handed us a piece of paper and said to pick out the quilt we liked the most. I don't know anything about quilts other than when I was young they would keep me warm at night. However, I know what I thought was pretty so we wrote down a number. There were lots of quilts there and to my surprise, I spent a little time looking at them. I could not imagine how long it took people to make a quilt in the "old days."

From there we drove to the Banana Pudding Festival at the Ag Pavilion and Fairgrounds inGrinder's Switch - the place Minnie Pearl made famous in her comedy routine. I really did not know what to expect and wondered if very many people would show up. Wow! What a surprise. When we arrived, the lady collecting money at the gate said that it had been lots of people through there. We parked in a field and walked to the main pavilion where there were hundreds of people listening to music. People were everywhere. I would like to know exactly how many were there, but I bet throughout the day there were thousands. There were two areas for live bands, a small area for children with the bouncy things, food of all kinds. Free Ice cream from Purity. I ate the rib-eye sandwich from the Lions Club - it was delicious. We ate the banana pudding and put our dollar in the one we thought was best. George Ann and I disagreed - which is not unusual. But, she has the right to be wrong.

I was happy with the way the day turned out. I had a good time although I was tired by the end of the day and I look forward to next year. After seeing the crowds in Centerville yesterday, maybe better days are ahead for Hickman County.

Centerville In The Fall Car Show

2010-09-12T08:20:00.000-07:00

If you like cars, Centerville, TN will be the place to be on October 4, 2010, . The annual Centerville in the Fall Car Show will be held at the Hickman County Justice Center, just off the Centerville Square. There will be 42 awards with 10 special awards. The show is open to all makes and models and Dash Plaques will be given to the first 125 entries. Door prizes will be given and food will be available. If you need more information, call (931) 729-4576.

Drew Luckett Memorial Scholarship Fundraiser In Centerville, TN

2010-08-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, August 21, 2010, the Drew Luckett Memorial Scholarship fundraiser will be held at the Skyview Country Club in Centerville, TN. The entry fee is $200 per team in the 4-person golf scramble. The tournament begins at 8:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Shotgun Start. Lunch will be served 11:30 until 1:00 and is only $5.00

$5,000 cash will be given for the 1st hole-in-one and there will be prizes for the longest drive contest and closest to the pin contest. Free demos by Ping, Mizuno, and Callaway Golf are available.

For more information or to reserve your spot contact Tim Luckett (931)209-6944, Buzz Maddox (931) 729-4548 or the Skyview Country Club (931) 729-2444. All proceeds go to the Drew Luckett Memorial Golf Scholarship fund which benefits the Hickman County High School.

Centerville, TN Fair On The Square 2010

2010-08-15T09:23:00.000-07:00

Centerville, Tennessee in Hickman County is the place to be on September 11. The 18th annual Grinder's Switch Music And Arts Festival begins at 9:00a.m. with opening ceremonies to be held at 10:00 and a live broadcast of the Grinder's Switch Hour on KIX 96 radio station to follow.

Plenty of food will be available to fill anybody and music will be held just about all day. According to the Hickman County Times, several local acts are scheduled to appear including, Grinder's Switch Skillet Lickers, Brothers In Christ, Double Down Band, Bobby Marquez, raw Country and the Grinder's Switch Ensemble. There is music for everyone.

Come on out to Centerville and have a good time.

For more information visit the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce website http://www.HickmanCo.org or call them at (931) 729-5594

Come One, Come All to the Hickman County Fair

2010-08-11T08:37:00.000-07:00

Come one! Come all! to the Hickman County fair in Grinders Switch- made famous by Minnie Pearl in her comedy routines - in Centerville, Tennessee. On August 25-28, the Hickman County Agriculture Pavilion and Fairgrounds will host the annual fair.

Come enjoy the rides, funnel cakes, cotton candy, the games. Throw baseballs till your arms get tired to win that stuffed animal.

Have a good time.

Poker Run In Centerville, Tennessee

2010-07-30T10:16:00.000-07:00

On August 7, 2010 the Centerville Public Square will be the place to be if you ride motorcycles. Registration for the Poker Run begins at 8:30 a.m. and continues until the start of the ride at 10:00 a.m. which ends at 5:00 p.m. in Lyles at the park.

The entrance fee is only $10.00 per bike and all proceeds go to the Hickman County Humane Society, which is an all volunteer organization. A $50 prize will be given to the rider with the best hand and a $25 prize will go to the person with the worst hand.

Barbecue meal tickets will be sold for $5 and will be served at the end of the run in Lyles.

For all your motorcycle event information, check out the website www.motorcyclemonster.com and enjoy the ride.

Fish Camp: Casualty Of The Flood

2010-07-27T19:39:00.000-07:00

I don't know how many times I ate there over the years, but the food was always good. Not as many as I would have liked, but a real estate agent has to watch what he spends because it may be a while before another payday comes along. However, just about everyone in Hickman County knows about Fish Camp in Centerville, Tennessee and the fish that they cooked.

Well, it is gone now. A casualty of the "Great Flood Of 2010." If you look at the photos of the flood, you can see that the water almost covered the entire building. Over the last few days it has been torn down. I have been told that a new building will be built in its place. I hope so.

It is a part of Hickman County History.

It's Football Time In Hickman County - Are You Ready?

2010-07-26T13:05:00.000-07:00

Here is the 2010 Football schedule for theHickman County High School Bulldogs inCenterville and the East Hickman County High School Eagles in Lyles. Here is the legal info that I am required to give since I am a Realtor. I am a Realtor with Crye-Leike, Realtors in Fairview. Equal Housing Opportunity. You can reach me at home at (931) 670-5316 or at the office: (615) 799-6288.

Go Bulldogs. Go Eagles.

I love football and I hope that this is a good season. One of my neighbors is the coach for the Bulldogs and I would love to see him do well. I would also like to see the Eagles do well. I went to Elementary School at East Elementary and was proud to be an Eagle.

See you there at some of the Football Games. I'll be the one wearing Red and Blue.

Gem, Mineral And Jewelry Show In Centerville, TN

2010-07-12T08:50:00.000-07:00

The 37th Annual Middle Tennessee Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show will be on July 16, 17, and 18, 2010 at the Tennessee Army National Guard Armory in Centerville. The Armory is located on Highway 50 West, just off of the Centerville Square in Hickman County. On Friday and Saturday, the hours are from 10 am until 6 pm and on Sunday from 10 am until 5 pm.

The admission fee is $3.00 and parking is free. Door Prizes will be given away. The show features 14k gold, beads, sterling silver, rear gemstones, crystals and many other items.

See you there!

Centerville, Tennessee 2010 Quilt Show

2010-06-30T13:10:00.000-07:00

Hickman County's 5th annual quilt show will be held on Friday, October, 1 and Saturday, October 2, 2010 at the First Baptist Church located at 100 Murphree Street. Only two blocks from the Centerville Square, the location is easy to reach. This years theme is Quilts...Homeward Bound. The quilts will be documented to be included in a quilt book. The hours of the show are Friday 12 pm to 6 pm and Saturday, 9 am to 4 pm. Everyone is invited to attend and view the wonderful quilts.

According to their new website http://quiltsofhome.org/ "the show is free and parking is too."

Angie Laster On Youtube From Grinder's Switch Hour

2010-06-28T20:52:00.000-07:00

Each week on Saturday, radio station KIX 96 (96.7 F.M.), has a live radio show from Centerville, TN. It is named the Grinder's Switch Hour, in honor of the town that Minnie Pearl made famous in her comedy routine. Yes, there really is a place called Grinder's Switch that is just outside the Centerville city limits in Hickman County.

This past Saturday, a local favorite, Angie Laster sang on the show. Her rendition of the Janis Joplin hit, "Me and Bobby McGee ' is good and I hope all of you that read this will click on the link on Youtube.com and listen to her. There are several of her songs on there. Listen to them also and tell your friends. You will like what you hear.

Angie Laster on the Grinder's Switch Hour

2010-06-14T09:12:00.000-07:00

I have written this blog for a year or two. I started out and titled it centervilletn.blogspot.com. But lately, I have written more about Hickman County, Tennessee than just Centerville. Therefore, I decided to create a blog that was more about the whole county than just one area of it. I don't know how often that I will post to it, although usually I post every week or two. Sometimes, I may make a statement that you don't agree with. That is OK. There is an old saying that if two partners agree all the time, one ain't needed.

If you want to see the new blog, go to http://HickmanCountyTennessee.blogspot.com and see what I have to say.

Things Improving In Hickman County

2010-06-14T08:17:00.000-07:00

It seems as though everything is getting back to normal in Hickman County, Tennessee. Although normal for Hickman County is not necessarily a good thing. The Hickman County Times reported that a new Industrial Board has been hired - after the old one was fired by the legislative body. I think that most of the commissioners should be "fired. " Don't get me wrong, I don't dislike any of the members, it is just that they don't work together for the betterment of the county. And Vision 21 is a big joke in the county. I am all for the idea of Vision 21, but "do something." I talk to a lot of people, and most believe that the organization should be abolished.

I understand that this has been the most difficult recession since the "Great Depression," but, there does not seem to be any plan for the future. As the old saying goes, they are just "killing snakes."

The Centerville Jr. Pro. Baseball season is over. It will probably be the last game that Zack, my youngest will play. He will be too old next year. I don't think that he will play High School Baseball. He tried out for the Middle School Basketball team, but didn't make it - he is shorter than some of the others, but I believe that he is one of the best ball handlers around. And, you know how it goes, the best does not always get chosen because someone else's son or daughter wants to play - even though they are not as good others. I imagine it is that way everywhere, but it is especially true in a small town.

I guess I just wanted to rant today, sometimes it feels good just to let your thoughts and words take you where ever they want to.

Back To Normal In Hickman County?

2010-05-12T11:34:00.000-07:00

It has been about 11 days since the flood. I could have put hundreds of pictures on here, but I figured that most people had seen the Local and National News broadcasts. I have helped tear out carpet and paneling at the Twomey Church Of Christ in Centerville. Man, that is hard work. I have seen workers at Fish Camp restaurant tearing out everything. There are dumpsters all over the county where people are gutting the insides of the buildings.

I went to the ballfield Saturday morning to help there, but the one that oversees the ballgames said that they were going to wait until FEMA arrived so they could see the destruction. The fence around the ballfields are down and mangled. There are hundreds of places that were either partially or totally destroyed. One bright spot is that Hickman County has a small population so the devastation was not as bad as it could have been had this area been densely populated.

The Red Cross has been helping out and the Churches in Centerville have set up shelters and have been feeding about 2400 people three times a day. Churches from Lyles, Bon Aqua, Dickson, and Columbia are all helping by doing whatever they can. One church sent a trailer truck load that they had collected and had more to come.

The schools are mostly closed, although students in the 10, 11, 12 grades had to return today so they could take "End of Course" exams. The superintendent will decide on Sunday whether the rest of the students will return for the last few days.

Here is an article that will help you to understand better what is going on in Hickman County.

http://www.tennessean.com/article/20100512/NEWS01/5120371/Already%20struggling%20Hickman%20County%20tries%20to%20claw%20out%20after%20flood

This is the first time that I have seen this amount of destruction, and it just goes to show that Mother Nature only allows us to live here and we better take care of what we have.

Pictures From The Great Flood of 2010

2010-05-04T07:33:00.000-07:00

These pictures were taken by Chuck Gilbert, the band director at Hickman County High School. He has allowed me to post them on this blog. Thanks Chuck.

Many of them are of the main bridge going into Centerville on Highway 100. A few are of the Riverfront Park area and a few are of the ballfield at Doyle Bowen Park.

This is probably the worst disaster that Hickman County has ever seen. There have been tornadoes before that destroyed several houses, but the magnitude of the flood has been amazing. Places that have never seen water in the area are flooded. Everyone in the area knows someone that was directly touched by this catastrophic event.

The Great Flood of 2010 In Centerville

2010-05-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

Well, I guess most of you have heard by now about the flood in Middle Tennessee this weekend. The Duck River in Hickman County escaped its banks once again. Although the likes of this flood has never been seen. According to one Nashville TV station, some areas in Hickman County received as much as 18 inches of rain over a two day period.

A picture of the river near Fish Camp restaurant shows just one area. Fish Camp is a popular restaurant in Centerville and is the building that you can only see the top of on the left. The picture was taken by Truman Borntrager. This photo was shared on Facebook by one of my friends, Sheila Wooten of KIX 96 radio station. I hope Mr. Borntrager does not mind me posting his picture, but I will give him a little advertisement. He is a local auctioneer with Coble Realty in Bon Aqua. So, If you need an auctioneer, give him a call.

Skirmish Of Centerville ON The Duck River

2010-04-18T10:57:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, April 24, 2010 the 3rd annual reenactment of the 7th Tennessee Co. B Skirmish of Centerville on the Duck River will be held. See the schedule of events at this blog.

http://blog.hickmantn.org/2010/04/battle-of-centerville-reenactment.html

On a personal note, my family and I watched the event last year and enjoyed it. As the cannons erupted you could hear the echoes for long distances. There is limited parking and you may have to walk a little bit, but it is worth the effort. Hickman County is the place to be.

Hickman County High School Featured on Channel 4's "Cool Schools"

2010-03-12T07:35:00.000-08:00

Most of the students at Hickman County High School spent last night at the school. Channel 4's Aaron Solomon visited the school and proclaimed Hickman County High School "Cool." Many programs were featured as well as many students who explained the classes. The High School is located in Centerville and has about 600 students.

View the program online at the link below.

http://www.wsmv.com/video/22798292/index.html

Hey, that is cool. Thanks, to the staff at the school that put up with the students all night and to the Channel 4 staff. According to my son, Jake, they had a good time.

Snow, Snow, Go Away!

2010-02-09T08:57:00.000-08:00

Well, it snowed again. School's out in Hickman County and most of Middle Tennessee and the kids are happy. Although this is the eight day they have missed due to snow. I hope they don't miss many more or they will have to make up some days. Our school system adds 11 days that they can miss due to weather. Usually we don't have much snow and they have several days left over, but this year has been unusual.

Centerville does not have the equipment to keep the roadways clear and the least bit of snow causes major problems. Most people in the Hickman County area - Lyles, Centerville, Bon Aqua - must drive elsewhere to work and it makes it hard on them. They can stay home and lose a day's work or drive and take a chance of wrecking their car.

Usually the real estate market is slow during the winter months, and this year is no exception and the weather has made it even tougher for a Realtor than usual - although I see signs that things are beginning to pick up. So, if you are looking for a house, or want to sell yours, give me a call and I can help you. Now is the time.

Home Sales Fall in 2009

2010-01-20T12:20:00.000-08:00

Home sales in Hickman County fell to their lowest level since 2002 when 163 houses were sold. From a high of 276 sales in 2005, the total number of sales decreased to 165 in 2009 – a decrease of 40.2%. According to Multiple Listing Service Data compiled by real estate agent Paul Taylor, sales volume has fallen three out the last four years.

The service, which aids real estate agents, tracks home sales in the Middle Tennessee Area. Most agents belong to the service which allows one agent to sell another agent’s listed property.

According to Taylor, who is a Realtor with Crye-Leike, Realtors of Fairview, the median value of houses sold decreased 12.5% from $102,773 in 2008 to $89,900 in 2009.

Taylor states that he expects the First-time Homebuyer’s tax credit that President Obama signed into law will help the real estate market improve in the New Year.

Snow In Centerville!

2010-01-07T12:19:00.000-08:00

Well, it doesn't happen a lot, but snow is falling here in Centerville. I don't know how much we will receive, but my wife and kids are happy with any. We usually make snow cream if it is enough so that we can collect the snow off of the top of the car or deck without getting dirt in it. Schools are out today and tomorrow. They closed them last night for today before even the first snowflake fell. All of ya'll in the North probably don't understand that, but we don't usually get much snow so we don't have the equipment to keep the roads clear like you do. Anyway, the snow is pretty.

Christmas Parade Time

2009-12-04T12:23:00.000-08:00

The annual Christmas parade will be held in Centerville, TN December 6, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. Join as dozens of floats, bands, horses, cars, and Santa make the trek around the Centerville Square. Be there to collect lots of candy that will be thrown out by the participants.

The East Hickman County Christmas parade will be held the following Sunday on December 13 from the East Elementary School in Lyles to the Highway 7 area. Sponsored by the Keg County Cowboys the parade will begin at 2:00 p.m. and will be fun for all.

Come on out and enjoy the fun at both of these Christmas events.

Santa Claus Is Coming To Centerville

2009-11-25T17:48:00.000-08:00

The Senior Citizen Center in Centerville will host the 5th annual arrival of Santa Claus on the Grinder's Switch Express on December 12, 2009. Sponsored by the Hickman County Chamber of Commerce and the South Central Tennessee Railroad, Santa will arrive at 10:00 A.M. Everyone is invited to join the fun and welcome Santa to Centerville.

Veterans Day Celebration

2009-11-06T14:41:00.000-08:00

On November 11, at 11:00 on the Centerville, Tennessee Square, the people of Hickman County will observe Veteran's Day. Colonel Michael Petermen will address those in attendance. Just a few weeks ago, the 771st unit of the National Guard returned from service in Iraq. Their return makes this day extra special since they were gone a year.

Grand Opening Of Health Center In Lyles, TN

2009-10-20T10:56:00.000-07:00

Today is the grand opening of the Three Rivers Community Health Center in Lyles in the East Hickman County area. The clinic is a nonprofit organization and delivers medical care on a sliding scale which is based on the Federal Poverty Level.

According to information provided, U. S. census statistics show that more than 18.5% of people ages 18-64 have income below the U. S. poverty level and 20% lack health insurance. The addition of this clinic to the area will be a benefit to citizens that usually travel to Centerville, Dickson, or Columbia for medical care.

Car Show Held By Civitan Group in Centerville

2009-09-30T08:25:00.000-07:00

A Hickman County Times article on September 28, reminded me that the 28th annual "Centerville In The Fall Auto Show" rolls into town this Saturday, October 3. Admission is free. Registration is $20 per car and the cars will be judged in the afternoon. Prizes will be awarded at 4:00. It will be held in the parking lot of the Hickman County Justice Center and about 125 entrants are expected. Live music as well as a Minnie Pearl impersonator will complete the day.

Quilt Show In Centerville, TN

2009-09-24T12:15:00.000-07:00

Hickman County will host its fourth annual quilt show in Centerville, TN on October 2nd and 3rd. This year's theme is "Remembering Hearth and Home" and will feature Log Cabin Quilts among many other designs. Old and new quilts of all sizes will be shown.

The Quilt show is being held at the Centerville First Baptist Church at 100 Murphree Avenue and show admission and parking are free and open to the public from 12 pm - 5 pm on October 2, and 9 am - 4 pm October 3.

For further information, you can contact Ruth Ann Carathers at (931) 670-4998 or Bettye T. Griffin at (931) 729-5437.

Hickman County Earns Photo Op With Governor Bredesen

2009-09-24T11:34:00.000-07:00

According to Daryl Phillips, the director of the Hickman County Economic & Community Development Association, Hickman County once again earned the three-star certification from the state. This certification is given to communities that meet certain criteria that the state deems necessary for economic growth. According to Matthew Kisber the "ECD is proud to support Hickman County in its dedication to long-term economic growth and success.”

This is great! However, for several years in a row, Hickman County has received this certification and I have not seen very many changes that have been brought about because of meeting this criteria. While surrounding counties seem to grow without limits, we have changed very little in the last 20 years and very little because of meeting state criteria. But, at least Mr. Phillips had the opportunity to have his photo taken with the Governor.

You can read Mr. Phillips blog here: http://blog.hickmantn.org/2009/09/hickman-county-earns-three-star.html

Ed Bruce to Perform at Grinder's Switch Music & Arts Festival

2009-09-03T09:56:00.000-07:00

Ed Bruce, co-writer of Mama's Don't Let Your Babies Grow Up To Be Cowboys, will perform at the Grinder's Switch Music and Arts Festival in Centerville, TN in Hickman County on September 12. He is scheduled to perform at 5:00 p.m.

The festival, which is always the Saturday after Labor Day, features many local and regional acts and begins at 10:00 a.m. with opening ceremonies. At 11:00 is the Grinder's Switch Hour, which is a local radio program that is live each Saturday morning.

There will also be plenty of fun and games for everyone to enjoy. So come on out to the Grinder's Switch Music & Arts Festival and enjoy the music.

Grinder's Switch is the place that Minnie Pearl always talked about in her Grand Ole Opry act.

Hickman County Bulldogs and East Hickman Eagles Football Schedule

2009-08-14T12:49:00.001-07:00

GO BULLDOGS!
GO EAGLES!

Schedule provided by:

Paul Taylor, Realtor
Crye-Leike, Realtors
(931) 670-5316
(615) 799-6288

Visit these websites:
HickmanCountyRealEstate.com
BonAquaTNRealestate.com
LylesTNRealEstate.com
MiddleTennesseeProperty.com
DicksonTNRealEstate.com

Whether you are looking to buy or sell real estate in Lyles, Centerville, Bon Aqua, or any other location in Hickman County or Middle Tennessee, give me a call and I can help you to find the home of your dreams.

Who Woudda Thunk It?

2009-06-10T12:12:00.000-07:00

The Revitalization Project of the Centerville, Tennessee Square is almost complete. For those of you that don't know, the square, in Hickman County, has undergone a complete transformation. No longer does one have to go around the square to get to the other side. Recently, Hwy 100 has been rerouted straight across the West side.

TDOT has also put up - not one, but two - traffic lights. One is located as you come up on the square from the Nashville side and the other is directly opposite. At first, it was a bit confusing, but as you get used to it, it is OK. According to the Hickman County Times, new lights were placed around the Centerville Public Square that makes it easier to see at night. The traffic lights were turned on last Thursday.

I remember when there was a traffic light in Centerville. It was many years ago and it seems that someone was always shooting it out. That was way back when Minnie Pearl had a restaurant there.

I like the way that the traffic is routed now. It makes it easier to get around Centerville; however, having owned a business on the Square, I think that rerouting may prove the death of small businesses there. Businesses had a hard enough time getting people to shop when they had to go around the square. Now people don't even have to look at the businesses on the East side. But, around here, small businesses have always had a hard way to go

Winner of Memorial Day Promotion Announced

2009-05-26T07:06:00.001-07:00

Karen Dodson of Lyles won a gas grill from the Crye-Leike, Realtors Office in Fairview. The office had a Memorial Day Promotion in which participants entered to win the grill.

Shown with Mrs. Dodson (2nd from right) are Realtors Paul Taylor, Sheree Rudd and Donna Hudson. The agents are planning to do other promotions in the future.

www.HickmanCountyRealEstate.com Created

2009-05-07T12:09:00.000-07:00

I have created a website for anyone that would like to buy or sell Real Estate in Hickman County. You can compare your house with others to see how much your house may be worth or you can find your dream home. You can also search the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) by location, price, or many other items. You can also sign up to receive updates when something new comes on the market that you may be interested in. Just click the link to be taken to http://www.HickmanCountyRealEstate.com and experience the ease with which you can now find the house that you want.

Minnie Pearl Statue Removed From Centerville

2009-03-12T09:12:00.000-07:00

The Minnie Pearl Statue was removed from the Centerville Square. According to the original agreement, the statue could only be removed for repairs to the statue. The square is undergoing renovations and the statue needed to be removed and the one that spearheaded the campaign to have Minnie placed there, removed the statue to a nearby county. Most citizens hope that it can be worked out to bring the statue back to the square after the renovations are completed.

Home Sales Plummet in 2008 in Hickman County

2009-01-23T12:23:00.000-08:00

Reflecting a nationwide trend, home sales plummeted 21.4% in Hickman County to their lowest level in six years. Paul Taylor, Realtor with Crye-Leike, Realtors in Fairview compiled Multiple Listing Service (MLS) Data to determine that the Real Estate Market is truly a "Buyer's Market."

According to Taylor, who lives in Centerville in Hickman County, the average price of a house decreased from $112,000 in 2007 to $99,948 in 2008. Extreme values were removed so that the numbers would reflect the real estate market. The median or middle price also decreased 9.57%, while the total value of houses sold through the MLS system decreased a whopping 35.16%.

Taylor, who can be reached at (615) 799-6288 says that in order to sell a house today, it must be "priced to sell." Home buyers are aware of the real estate market and are looking for a bargain.

"If you want to sell your house, price it right the first time and make small repairs. That is the key to selling in this real estate market," Taylor said.

Minnie Pearl Statue in Centerville

2009-01-19T15:03:00.000-08:00

You Can Get There From Here

2008-12-27T10:07:00.000-08:00

View Larger Map

Hickman Springs Waterfall In Centerville

2008-12-27T09:03:00.000-08:00

This waterfall is one of the prettiest spots in Hickman County and is probably one of the most photographed. Just off the Centerville Square it only takes minutes to get there.

Minnie Pearl

2008-12-01T10:58:00.000-08:00

On May 12, 2005, on the Centerville Square - yes, it is that type of town - a statue honoring the life and times of Sarah Ophelia Colley Cannon, known to the world as Minnie Pearl was unveiled. The bronze statue is fifteen-percent larger than life and was designed by renowned sculptor Bill Rains who captured her likeness brilliantly.

Ophelia, as she was known around these parts, was born in 1912 in Centerville, Tennessee. Her father was a sawmill operator.

In 1940, "Minnie Pearl" was born on the Grand Ole Opry stage and was called "Cousin Minnie." Her straw hat with the price tag hanging off of it and gingham dress became her trademark all over the world. After 35 years on stage, in 1975, she was the first comedienne to be inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. After a long illness, Minnie died in 1996 but her legacy remains. Several hospitals have areas that have been named for her.

Famous People

2008-11-18T13:52:00.000-08:00

Over the years, Centerville has been home to several famous people. Probably the most famous person to call Centerville home is Sarah Ophelia Colley Cannon. Most people know her as Minnie Pearl. A member of the Grand Ole Opry for more than 50 years. In 2005 a statue of Minnie was erected on the square in Centerville.

Another member of the Grand Ole Opry that made Centerville his home was Del Reeves.

A brief History Of Centerville

2008-11-13T11:18:00.000-08:00

In 1807, the Tennessee General Assembly created a new county. An amendment was added to the bill that specified that the new county should be named in honor of Edwin Hickman, who in 1791 lead a surveying party from North Carolina into the area. The surveying crew camped near a small creek that flows into the Duck River. The next morning, Indians attacked and Hickman and other members of his party were killed.

The original boundaries of the county extended all the way to the Alabama state line and Vernon was named as the first county seat. Throughout the next decade, Hickman County was divided into several smaller counties and a group of citizens wanted to move the county seat to Centerville, which as the name implies is located in the center of Hickman County. In 1823, the town of Centerville became the county seat. The people of Vernon, not wanting the county seat moved, was angry, so the courthouse was dismantled at night and moved along with the records to Centerville.

The correct address and zip code of Centerville is: Centerville, TN 37033