McKenzie, Tennessee, with a modest yet growing population of approximately 5,600 residents, traces its origins back to the mid-1800s. Initially founded as McKenzie Station during the railroad boom, it quickly became important due to its strategic location at the crossing of the Nashville & Northwestern and Louisville & Memphis railroads. Notably, President Grover Cleveland once chose this small railroad town for an overnight stay in 1887, marking a significant milestone in its historical prominence. The city later witnessed an explosive population growth during World War II when a federal munitions plant east of nearby Milan attracted numerous laborers.
Today, the echoes of its rail-centric past remain visible in McKenzie’s inviting historic downtown. Visitors strolling through its streets can relax at the charmingly restored Park Theater, which frequently hosts community shows and nostalgic film screenings. The city square, with its quaint shops and benches beneath shady trees, feels like stepping into a quieter, earlier era. Further exploration reveals the First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, constructed between 1887 and 1892 in distinctive Gothic Revival style, a cherished landmark now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Art and culture enthusiasts find McKenzie intriguing for several reasons, including Bethel University, a private liberal arts institution dating back to 1871. Known for actively contributing to the town’s cultural life, Bethel hosts regular art shows, concerts, and lectures. Galleries at the university display an engaging mix of professional exhibitions and student-created artwork, fostering an artistic community deeply connected to the town. The Gordon Browning Museum further enriches local culture, dedicated to Tennessee’s influential governor, Gordon Browning, chronicling his life and political impact through thoughtfully curated exhibits.
Annual festivals enhance the community spirit in McKenzie. The Sweet Tea Festival unfolds during the fourth weekend in August. It kicks off with a Trivia Night at the Farmer’s Market, followed by Community Gospel Singing featuring Gaither artists. Through the weekend, craft booths, food vendors, carnival rides, a petting zoo, and live concerts energize the streets Similarly captivating is the annual McKenzie Highland Games, uniquely spotlighting the city’s Scottish heritage. Here, residents proudly participate in traditional Scottish competitions, including the iconic caber toss, showcasing cultural pride and physical prowess.
Local entrepreneurs contribute distinctly to the town’s charm. Merchants Outlet Mall spans roughly 56,000 sq ft and hosts more than 400 vendor booths offering antiques, collectibles, handmade crafts, furniture, clothing and jewelry. Another interesting establishment is Farmers Home Furniture, the local destination for those seeking a wide range of home furnishings backed by reliable service. This store offers living room sofas, dining sets, mattresses, appliances and patio pieces, representing many national brands.
For dining experiences, McKenzie surprises with a selection of casual yet memorable establishments. Block City Pizza, popular among locals and visitors alike, crafts signature pies like the BBQ Chicken Ranch pizza, which creatively blends tangy sauce, smoked chicken, and crisp vegetables. Also noteworthy is Congetta’s Chitalian Favorites which operates Tuesday through Saturday, serving Chicago style Italian beef from a family recipe since 1969 alongside homemade Italian ice, cannoli, lasagna, wedding soup, and assorted Italian pastries.
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