Jaime Vaughn

Step into the rich tapestry of American history by visiting DeKalb County, Tennessee, where the Civil War’s legacy is etched into the landscape. Unlike many of its Middle Tennessee neighbors, DeKalb County was deeply divided during the war. In the 1861 referendum on secession, the county voted to secede by a narrow margin of 833 to 642—the slimmest margin among counties that chose to secede.

This internal conflict is exemplified by two prominent local figures: Congressman William B. Stokes, a slave owner who opposed secession and became a Union colonel, and John H. Savage, a former congressman and Smithville attorney who supported the Confederacy and also became a colonel. Their rivalry intensified during the war, reflecting the county’s internal divisions.

Visitors can delve into this complex history by exploring several notable sites. The “DeKalb County in the Civil War” historical marker, located on the grounds of the DeKalb County Courthouse in Smithville, offers insights into the county’s divided loyalties and wartime experiences. Additionally, the Battle of Snow Hill site near Dowelltown provides a glimpse into the skirmishes that occurred in the area.

Embark on a journey through DeKalb County to uncover the stories of courage, conflict, and community that shaped this region during one of the most tumultuous periods in American history.