About this Event
Meet me on the Richland Creek Greenway at 11 a.m. Discover that this area boasts some of Tennessee's most history-rich neighborhoods. Sense why one archeologist refers to the area as the "Valley of Death." Hear about a town of mound builders that mysteriously disappeared near the time of De Soto and the colonizers that claimed their abandoned land. Get gossipy tidbits about folk hero Davy Crockett and outlaw Jesse James. Catch romance in the story of the eldest son of a local landowner who gave up his share of what today would be a 35-million-dollar inheritance for love. Stand near the spot where a 19th century Harvard professor and a band of archeologists changed the landscape forever. Become privy to little-known facts about the train wreck at Dutchman's Curve. Find out what a civil war veteran, a bootlegger, an ambitious priest, some missing nuns, a vigilante nightrider, and one young suffragette all had in common. Follow a sequence of events that led to White Bridge Road ultimately getting its name.
The tour begins on a 108-year-old pedestrian bridge. It ends at a 160-year-old railroad abutment.
Both are artifacts of the train wreck. Learn how preserving old structures help historians and storytellers like me interpret history.
The Dutchman's Curve historical marker stands at the entrance to the Greenway. Get the inside scoop on how to establish a Metro historical marker.
The Walk
Did you know that the deadliest train wreck in US history occurred In Nashville in 1918? Two train locomotives smashed together on a set of tracks known as Dutchman’s Curve.
Today those same tracks wind through the Richland Creek Greenway.
My name is Betsy Thorpe. I am the author of "The Day the Whistles Cried: The Great Cornfield Meet at Dutchman’s Curve.” Join me on a walking tour. Hear the story of the train wreck. Learn about the history and old architecture of the area.
The Place
At one time the tracks through Dutchman’s Curve bordered farmlands.
Today, they pass by archeological remnants, aged structures, historical markers, and landmark graffiti. Artifacts preserving stories of the past.
See You There!
The Pedestrian Bridge on the Richland Creek Greenway is 7 miles west of downtown Nashville.
There is plenty of free parking.
This is a half-mile walking tour. It is handicap accessible.
Wear a hat. Bring water!
The Walk Through Dutchman's Curve is offered for free, but tips are always appreciated!
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Pedestrian Bridge Richland Creek Greenway, 4324 Harding Pike, Nashville, United States
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