Growing up in Rutherford County I visited the Sam Davis Home my fair share throughout my school years. I vividly remember my mom bundling up my brother and I in the fall, so we could get in on the fun of the annual Heritage Days event—storytelling, lots of campfires, and seeing the plantation's buildings teem with energy, as re-enactors demonstrated farm life as it was over 150 years ago.
While the historic home and property offer a significant portrait of 19th century life in Middle Tennessee, the story of "Boy Hero" Sam Davis is just as powerful for its depiction of valor in the nation's most tumultuous period. A smart and promising young man, Sam Davis was captured at the age of 21 by Union troops and tried as a spy during the Civil War.
When asked to produce the name of his informant, and thereby regain his freedom, Davis declared, "I would rather die a thousand deaths than betray a friend." The Sam Davis Memorial Association honors his legacy through programs and exhibits at the visitor's center museum and tours of the home and property throughout the year.
The winter is a wonderful time to rediscover Davis' home or visit for the first time. Fresh programs for the season offer all ages fun educational opportunities at great value. From book clubs to Toddler Tuesdays to special celebrations, there's something for everyone to enjoy at the museum and historic home of this remarkable young hero.
1. Smart Tots
Held the last Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m., Toddler Tuesdays provides opportunity for preschoolers and their caregivers to enjoy reading, singing, arts and crafts based on a particular theme or historical concept. Start this month on December 31st for a "Winter Wonderland" theme. Cost is $5 for the hour-long event, and tickets can be purchased online. A Teddy Bear Tea, an especially popular event for youngsters looking to include their stuffed animals in their adventures, will be held March 14 at 2 p.m.
2. Book Clubs
On the last Thursday of the month in January, March, May, July and September, elementary students and teens can join their peers in the afternoon for discussion about a shared work of fiction. An education coordinator provides historical perspective and conversation direction. The clubs, Young Readers and Teen Book Clubs, respectively, are free, but participants do need to pick up a copy of the book.
3. Homeschool Workshops
Kids will love getting a dose of history and meet learning standards with hands-on activities. On February 14, homeschoolers can come out for a special Victorian Valentines Workshop from 10-11:30 a.m. Cost is $8. Be on the lookout for other homeschool opportunities throughout the year.
4. Family Nights
Families are encouraged to have fun together in the historic setting. On January 25th from 6-8 p.m. mom, dad and the kids can enjoy a family movie night in the gorgeous visitor center theater. Cost is $8 per person for ages 2 and up. Mark your calendar for other Family Nights including camping and ghost tours!
5. National Celebrations
Have fun celebrating some of the nation's unique holidays! At 11 a.m. Jan. 17, celebrate National Popcorn Day, and at 11 a.m. March 12 come out for National Girl Scout Day.
To stay up to date on more Sam Davis Home educational programs and events and to reserve your spot, visit samdavishome.org/education1 or email education director Cassie Welsh at education@samdavishome.org. You can also stay in their events loop by following the museum on Facebook and Instagram.
Historic Sam Davis Home and Plantation 1399 Sam Davis Road, Smyrna. 615-459-2341. samdavishome.org. Hours: January- May, Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. General admission (including home and grounds tour) is $15; Seniors, Veterans, and Current Military is $13; College students with ID and children 6-12 are $10. Grounds tour only (without house) is $10. Children under 6 are free.
Laura Beth Payne is a writer mama living in the Blackman Community of Murfreesboro with her husband Nathan and their two children. Follow @murfreesboromama on Facebook and Instagram for more family fun in and around the city.