Welcome

The Jefferson County Historical Society  (JCHS) is a non-profit corporation dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and safekeeping of the county’s historical structures, documents, artifacts, and heritage. The Society, a continuation of the Restore Our Courthouse and Restore Our County (ROC) efforts, began in 1978 when Restore Our Courthouse as formed by local citizens to save the Jefferson County Courthouse from being destroyed and replaced by a modern building.

For over 40 years, JCHS members and county citizens have worked to ensure that the unique history of the people, places, and events in our county are not lost. It is through the work of people like you that the history of our area from its earliest beginning through today is being preserved for future generations.

Announcements

  • Winter Meeting - The Tale of Tarr House

    Get ready for an exciting evening with the Jefferson County Historical Society! We're thrilled to invite you to our Winter Meeting on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the First Baptist Church in Jefferson City. The church, located at 1610 Russell Avenue, will open its doors at 6:30 pm for an evening of history and discovery. Best of all, the event is free and open to everyone!

    Our special guest speaker, Joanna James, will take us on a fascinating journey with her presentation, "The Tale of the Tarr House and Plantation." The Tarr House, a stunning 3,800 square foot Italianate mansion, was built in 1881 by James Archibald Tarr to celebrate the birth of his son, Herd (Hurd) Lonas Tarr MD. This beautiful mansion, affectionately known as the Tarr House, is located just three miles northwest of Jefferson City. While the house itself dates back to 1881, the rich history of the plantation it sits on stretches even further back in time.

    Don't miss this opportunity to uncover the hidden gem of Jefferson County and learn more about its intriguing past. Mark your calendars and join us for an evening of captivating stories and historical insights. We can't wait to see you there!

  • Grateful Nation

    A local movement has been started in coordination with area ROTC and JROTC programs to identify Jefferson County's heroes and having Cards creating for them with the goal of have card decks of Jefferson County Heroes that can be given to local schools and organizations.

    Click Here to Learn More

  • Membership / Board Meetings

    Our quarterly membership meetings are held the 3rd Thursday in January, April, July, and October and is open for all to attend.

     

    Our Board meets 4 times a year at the Shepard's Inn, located in Dandridge. Meetings begin at 2pm. 
    The meeting dates for 2024: 


    November 12

    Want to Become A Member (click here)

  • Follow Us on Facebook!