Rutherford County History & Recovery Court: Inside Murfreesboro’s Legacy

Oct 05, 2026 at 10:31 am



Local history meets second chances as WGNS host Andy Hersher sits down with Bill Wilson—famously known as "Mr. Murfreesboro"—for a deep dive into the heritage, culture, and community initiatives shaping Rutherford County. From the bloodiest battles of the Civil War to the origin of First Lady Sarah Childress Polk’s favorite presidential march, this episode uncovers the legendary stories that built Middle Tennessee.

Beyond local lore, the conversation highlights the life-changing impact of the Rutherford County Recovery Court Foundation. Wilson shares personal insights into how rehabilitation programs provide a vital alternative to incarceration, saving taxpayer dollars while giving individuals struggling with addiction a meaningful second chance.

Key Takeaways

Tags: addiction recovery Andy Hersher Bill Wilson community outreach General Douglas MacArthur history storytelling James K. Polk Local Non-Profits local talk show Middle Tennessee Electric Middle Tennessee history Murfreesboro news Murfreesboro square Murfreesboro TN Oaklands Mansion Recovery Court Foundation rehabilitation programs Rutherford County Rutherford County court system Sarah Childress Polk Sir Pizza history Stones River Battle Tennessee history Tennessee politics The Round Table WGNS WGNS radio
Sections: Roundtable from WGNS