Revolutionary Rutherford: Exploring Rutherford County’s Revolutionary War Legacy | Dr. John Lodl

How did Revolutionary War veterans help shape Rutherford County, Tennessee, and what stories remain hidden in the historical record? In this Buchanan Lecture Series presentation, Dr. John Lodl, director of the Rutherford County Archives and an adjunct history instructor at Middle Tennessee State University, explores the Revolutionary War’s lasting legacy in Rutherford County. Drawing on archival documents, military pension records, land grants, wills, maps, and historical diaries, Lodl explains how researchers can piece together the stories of the people who shaped Middle Tennessee. He also examines lesser-known accounts of African Americans, including Revolutionary War veteran Peter Jennings and Clarissa, a formerly enslaved woman who successfully sued for her freedom. The presentation also highlights the role of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) in preserving Rutherford County’s history, protecting historic landmarks and bringing overlooked stories to light. Lodl emphasizes the importance of going beyond internet searches and exploring original historical records, reminding researchers that not everything is available online. Topics covered include: Revolutionary War veterans and the settlement of Middle Tennessee Land grants and the early development of Rutherford County Researching local history through archives and primary sources The stories of Peter Jennings and Clarissa The Daughters of the American Revolution and local historic preservation The importance of preserving and interpreting overlooked historical narratives About the speaker: Dr. John Lodl is director of the Rutherford County Archives and has taught history as an adjunct instructor at Middle Tennessee State University for more than 20 years. Learn more about the MTSU Honors College: https://honors.mtsu.edu/