From Nashville to Tupelo on the Natchez Trace Parkway, it turns into a journey that has never been lost to the heart and soul of America. In the heart of Tennessee, in Tennessee, the Natchez Trace Parkway passes over beautiful rolling hills, small farms, rolling river valleys, and the rolling hills of Tennessee.
The route has been marked by the Natchez Trace Historical Association as the “first section of the Natchez Trace Parkway as it was completed in 1976.” It’s a route that is not only beautiful to drive but also is filled with history and culture. Along this route, the history of the Natchez Trace Parkway began with the building of the first bridge, the Natchez Trace Bridge, over the New River near Clarksville in 1857.
What many people remember is the Natchez Trace River Bridge, and that’s where you’ll find the Natchez Trace Historical Association office. The building is a beautiful example of early 1900’s, Colonial Revival style. The building is open every day from 10am to 5pm, and is where the NTHA has the privilege to display many of the things they have collected over the years.
Inside, you’ll find original maps showing the history of the Natchez Trace Historical Association. Many of them were made by NTHA member, Henry C. Browning.
Henry is a true gentleman. He is also a veteran in the service, a member of the American Legion, and he is a great storyteller. Here’s some of his stories as told by his great grandson, Mark Browning:
“My grandfather was a long time resident of Clarksville, where he worked for the railroad. A local business owner bought a local railroad shop and Henry got the opportunity to start his life away.
He was a great storyteller and was always up to tell a great story. He is
