How Did Paris TN Get Its Name?

By Alice Nichols

Have you ever wondered how Paris, Tennessee got its name? Well, let’s take a journey back in time to discover the history behind this charming city.

The Early Days

Paris, Tennessee was founded in 1823 and was named after the capital city of France. The town was established on a 640-acre tract of land that belonged to Joseph Blythe and his wife, Nancy. The Blythes named their newly founded town after the French capital because they believed it would attract cultured settlers.

The Growth of Paris

The town of Paris, Tennessee grew rapidly in the 1830s and 1840s. It became a hub for agriculture and commerce due to its location along the Tennessee River. The town’s growth was also fueled by the arrival of several important transportation routes such as railroads and steamboats.

Paris Landing State Park

Paris Landing State Park is located on the western shore of Kentucky Lake in Henry County, Tennessee. The park is situated on the site of an old steamboat landing that served as a key transportation hub for Paris in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

The Civil War Era

During the Civil War, Paris played an important role as a Confederate supply depot. Union forces occupied the town for a brief period in March 1862 but were soon forced to withdraw due to lack of supplies.

The Battle of Paris Landing

The Battle of Paris Landing took place on April 12-13, 1864. Confederate forces under General Nathan Bedford Forrest attacked Union gunboats near Paris Landing State Park. Although Forrest’s troops were unable to capture any Union boats, they did manage to disrupt Union supply lines along the Tennessee River.

  • Fun Fact: Despite being named after France’s capital city, the streets of Paris, Tennessee are named after American presidents.
  • Another Fun Fact: Paris, Tennessee is home to the world’s largest fish fry festival, which takes place every April.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Paris, Tennessee got its name from the capital city of France. It has a rich history that includes growth as a hub for agriculture and commerce, serving as a Confederate supply depot during the Civil War, and being the site of the Battle of Paris Landing. Although it may not be as well-known as its namesake city in France, Paris, Tennessee has a unique charm and history all its own.