State Rep. Michael Hale, Smithville, and Sen. Shane Reeves, Murfreesboro have secured $250,000 in state grant funding to support the revitalization of the Cannon County Courthouse. The appropriated funds are part of the state’s $58.3 billion balanced budget passed by the Tennessee General Assemblyon April 15.
The funding will be used for capital improvements to the historic courthouse, including structural and restoration enhancements designed to preserve the building and extend its long-term use.
“I’m grateful we’re taking proactive steps to preserve one of Cannon County’s most historic gems,” Hale said. “This building is more than just a courthouse. It is a symbol of our county’s origins and remains at the heart of our community.”
“I’m so glad we could help secure funding that will preserve this historic landmark for future generations while ensuring it remains a functional centerpiece of the community for years to come,” said Reeves. “Courthouses like this are part of the foundation of our small towns and reflect the character and heritage of the people who call Cannon County home.”
Originally established on Jan. 31, 1836, by the General Assembly and named in honor of former Tennessee Gov. Newton Cannon, Cannon County has long centered around the historic Cannon County Courthouse in Woodbury. The courthouse was constructed in 1838 and rebuilt in 1935 after the original structure was destroyed by a fire. The Cannon County Courthouse was later added to the National Register of Historic Places registry on April 14, 1992, in recognition of its historical and colonial architectural significance.