County of courthouse: Humphreys County
Location of courthouse: W. Main St. & W. Court Square, Waverly
Courthouse built: 1952
Architect: Steinbaugh & Wheeler
Contractor: Boone Construction Company
The Person:
" ... Named in honor of Parry W. Humphreys, Judge, Superior Court of Law and Equity, 1807~09; Circuit Judge. Fifth District, Law and Equity, 1809~12 and 1818~36. Member of Congress, 1813~1815." ~ Tennessee Historical Commission
"HUMPHREYS, Parry Wayne, a Representative from Tennessee; born in Staunton, Va., in 1778; moved with his family to Kentucky in 1789 and later settled in Tennessee; completed preparatory studies; studied law; was admitted to the bar in 1801 and commenced practice in Nashville, Tenn.; judge of the superior court of Tennessee 1807-1809; judge of the State judicial circuit 1809-1813; elected as a Republican to the Thirteenth Congress (March 4, 1813-March 3, 1815); unsuccessful candidate for election to the United States Senate in 1817; again judge of the State judicial circuit 1818-1836; moved to Hernando, De Soto County, Miss., and engaged in banking until his death there February 12, 1839; interment in the Methodist Cemetery." ~ Biographical Directory of the United States Congress
The Place:
"Welcome to Humphreys County, Tennessee, a county rich in history,natural resources, industry and family entertainment. "The Land of Three Rivers" offers the natural beauty of the Tennessee River, the Duck River and the Buffalo River. Taking advantage of the friendly, hometown atmosphere, visitors travel from all over the country to enjoy boating, fishing, camping and a variety of other recreational activities.
"The middle Tennessee area is easily accessible from Interstate 40, Exit 143, which accesses Hwy. 13 and leads north to the county seat of Waverly. U.S. Highway 70 runs through the three major cities in the county. Waverly, the largest city and center of the county is flanked on the east by McEwen, which is rich in Irish heritage, and New Johnsonville on the west, which is rich in Civil War history.
"One of Humphreys County's largest attractions is Loretta Lynn's Ranch and Family Campground near Hurricane Mills. Visitors are allowed a glimpse into the personal life of country music legend, Loretta Lynn, with family entertainment from April through November of each year. The museum and gift shop depict various aspects of Lynn's life. The ranch also sponsors the AMA National Motocross Championship as well as concerts, trail rides and other activities throughout the year.
"In McEwen, St. Patrick's Irish Picnic and Homecoming, held the last Friday and Saturday in July, is one of the world's largest outdoor barbeque events. Drawing thousands of visitors each year, St. Patrick's famous barbequed pork, chickens, sauce and fixings keep visitors coming back for more.
"Ready access to transportation via railroad, waterways, highways and interstates has facilitated the growth of several types of industry in Humphreys County. A small airport, located in Waverly, serves private aircraft.
"Blue Creek Nature Center, located just outside Waverly and the Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge, which runs along Duck River, encompasses more than 52,000 acres and is perfect for observing a look at untouched wildlife. The peaceful blue waters and many marinas make these popular getaways for the entire family. Avid fishermen and hunters find a paradise along the refuge with organized hunts and fishing tournaments.
"Humphreys County is rich in history with Civil War artifacts, antebellum homes and more. The Johnsonville Historic State Park, Humphreys County Museum and Civil War Fort, Nolan House, McAdoo House, Enoch's Mill and one of only two old Greyhound bus stations found in the state offer a backward glance into the history of Humphreys County.
"The following pages and sites offer further information on the resources found in Humphreys County, the heart of the “Volunteer State”." ~ Humphreys County, Tennessee