State Historic Sites Spotlight: Rock Castle State Historic Site

Rock Castle State Historic Site

After serving in the Revolutionary War, Daniel Smith moved to what is now Sumner County, Tennessee. Smith began construction of Rock Castle, his majestic two-story limestone Federal style home, in 1784. The constructed was completed in three sections over the course of twelve years. Daniel Smith was a well-known surveyor and United States Senator. He is noted for creating the earliest map of Tennessee and a member of the convention that wrote the Tennessee State Constitution of 1796.  The State of Tennessee and Tennessee Historical Commission acquired the property in 1969 and on July 8^th, 1970, Rock Castle State Historic Site was listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Breaking Ground

The largest capital project in the history of the Tennessee Historical Commission’s State Historic Sites Program broke ground on May 31, 2024. The ceremony was well attended by government officials and members of the public. Improvements to the site include a new visitor center and museum attached to a large event center for programs and interpretation, the restoration of the Smith family cemetery, and needed historic preservation and restoration work to the Rock Castle structure.

Located in Hendersonville, Rock Castle State Historic Site is operated by the Friends of Rock Castle and is open to the public. The site offers several special events throughout the year, check out their website for operating hours and current events offered!

Digital Version of the State Historic Sites Brochure Released

The Tennessee Historical Commission is pleased to announce the release of a digital version of the State Historic Sites brochure! Travel through Tennessee history with this interactive guide to our State Historic Sites Program.