Murfreesboro, TN - In a deeply troubling act of vandalism, the grave box of Captain William Lytle—one of Murfreesboro’s founding figures—was destroyed at his historic family cemetery. The site is tucked beside Haynes Brothers Lumber Company on Northwest Broad Street. Lytle was the Revolutionary War soldier who donated the land upon which Murfreesboro was built.

Robert Bolyard, president of the Tennessee Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), Stones River Chapter, told WGNS...

In addition to Bolyard, Col. Mark Young Sr. will be the team leader heading up the restoration, preservation, and maintenance of the Lytle Cemetery. He is putting together a Team of VOLUNTEERS to work on this major undertaking. 

The SAR president noted that the destruction comes at a particularly sensitive time, with preparations underway for the upcoming celebration of America’s 250th birthday. Bolyard emphasized the urgency of restoring the site quickly to honor the legacy of Captain Lytle and this city’s roots.

He said that as word of the vandalism has been leaking out, history supporters are ready to help financially...

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the vandalism to contact CrimeStoppers at (615) 893-STOP (7867). Tips that lead to an arrest and conviction could earn YOU up to $1,000 cash reward, and anonymity is guaranteed—even the police won’t know who you are.

As more details emerge, NewsRadio WGNS will keep the public informed.

Here is the compete interview with Tennessee Society SAR, Stones River Chapter President Robert Bolyard.