Murfreesboro, TN - This Sunday afternoon, October 26th, the Rutherford County Archeological Society invites you to step into a world where history, memory, and mystery converge. Their monthly meeting kicks off at 2:00 p.m., and this one promises to be a standout. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. with refreshments and friendly faces, so come early and settle in.
The featured speaker is Historian Roxanne Jenkins, a familiar name to many in Rutherford County. Now serving as a historical interpreter at Clarksville’s Fort Defiance Civil War Park and Interpretive Center, Jenkins brings a wealth of experience and a deep love for Tennessee’s layered past. Her presentation will dive into the story of Valentine Sevier’s Station—a site steeped in legend and layered with questions.
Valentine Sevier’s Station holds a unique place in Tennessee’s frontier history, serving as both a physical stronghold and a symbol of early settler resilience. Established in the late 18th century by Revolutionary War veteran Valentine Sevier, the station was part of a network of fortified homesteads designed to protect families from frequent raids during a volatile period of westward expansion. While its exact location and structural details remain debated, the station represents a critical intersection of personal legacy, regional defense, and the evolving narrative of settlement in Middle Tennessee. Its story continues to spark interest among historians and archaeologists seeking to untangle myth from material evidence.
Jenkins will guide attendees through the fascinating interplay between physical artifacts, written records, and the stories communities tell themselves. How do we decide what’s authentic? What role do local traditions play in shaping what gets preserved—or forgotten? And how does a place like Sevier’s Station hold up under the scrutiny of archaeological investigation?
It’s not just a lecture—it’s a journey into the heart of historical interpretation. Jenkins earned her MA in Public History from Arizona State University and completed her graduate internship right here in Murfreesboro at The Middle Tennessee Museum of Natural History. She’s also spent time interpreting at Stones River National Battlefield and even taught math in Rutherford County schools—a side quest that many locals may remember fondly.
Whether you’re a seasoned history buff or simply curious about the stories buried beneath our feet, this event is open to all. No RSVP required, no cost to attend—just bring your curiosity and a neighbor or two. The Rutherford County Archeological Society continues to make history accessible, engaging, and deeply rooted in community.
