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Bethesda, Tennessee facts for kids

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Bethesda
Bethesda is located in Tennessee
Bethesda
Bethesda
Location in Tennessee
Bethesda is located in the United States
Bethesda
Bethesda
Location in the United States
Country United States
State Tennessee
Counties Williamson
Elevation
799 ft (244 m)
Time zone UTC-6 (CST)
 • Summer (DST) UTC-5 (CDT)

Bethesda, Tennessee is a small, rural community located in southeastern Williamson County, Tennessee. It is known as an "unincorporated community." This means it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town. Instead, it's part of the larger county area.

History of Bethesda

Bethesda began as a small community in the early 1800s. It was built along Rutherford Creek. The community helped serve the needs of nearby farms. Early settlers, like the Bond and Steele families, built homes here.

Early Buildings and Community Life

The Bethesda Methodist Church was started in 1832. A brick church building was then constructed in 1844. Many early homes were built in the Bethesda area. The William Steele House is one of the most famous and well-preserved. There are no old commercial buildings left from that time.

Bethesda During the Civil War

In the spring of 1861, a group of soldiers called the Webb Guards was formed. These soldiers came from Bethesda and nearby towns like Triune and College Grove. This group became Company D of the 20th Tennessee Volunteer Infantry. They fought during the American Civil War.

Historic Places in Bethesda

Some places in Bethesda are so important that they are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is a special list kept by the U.S. government. It helps protect buildings and sites that have historical value.

William Steele House

The William Steele House is located on Bethesda-Arno Road. It was built in 1850. This house was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

Smithson-McCall Farm

Smithson-McCall Farm is another important site in Bethesda. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2007.

Local Sites and Landmarks

Bethesda has several important local places. These include Bethesda Elementary School, where many local children learn. There is also the Bethesda Market & Deli, a place for community members to shop.

Bethesda High School Building

The old Bethesda High School building is next to the elementary school. It is no longer a high school. Today, it is used for fun activities like recreational basketball and baseball. The school's old library is still used by the community. It now serves as the Bethesda Public Library.

Notable People from Bethesda

  • Ida Horton East (1842-1915), a well-known person who gave a lot to charity and helped others.

Gallery

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