Tennessee State Museum Receives Historic Joseph Greer House Donation
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Pictured, left to right:
- Miranda Fraley Rhodes, Assistant Chief Curator
- Carrie Tipton, Tennessee America 250 Coordinator
- Richard White, Chief Curator
- Ashley Howell, Executive Director and Chair of the Tennessee Commission for the United States Semiquincentennial
- Rick Laws, President, Joseph Greer Chapter, Tennessee Society Sons of the American Revolution
NASHVILLE, TN — The Tennessee State Museum received a significant historical donation on June 24, 2025, when Rick Laws, President of the Joseph Greer Chapter of the Tennessee Society Sons of the American Revolution, presented a corner-notched hewn log segment from the historic Joseph Greer House and a copy of the book "House of the Messenger - Recovery and Reconstruction of the Kings Mountain Messenger's Dogtrot House."
A Piece of Revolutionary War History
The donated corner notched, hewn log segment, which comes from the original Joseph Greer House, built in 1804 in Lincoln County, Tennessee. Joseph Greer, known as the "Kings Mountain Messenger," played a crucial role during the American Revolutionary War by carrying vital communications that helped coordinate the pivotal Battle of Kings Mountain.
The museum's acquisitions committee approved the donation after discussions between Laws and Dr. Rhodes, the museum's curator, recognizing the artifact's significant historical importance to Tennessee's pioneer heritage.
Museum's Growing Collection
The Tennessee State Museum already houses a collection of Joseph Greer artifacts, though they are not currently on display. Many of the textiles in the collection require conservation treatment and limited light exposure for preservation. While these artifacts were initially planned for the museum's 2018 long-term exhibits, they were ultimately cut from the final gallery displays.
However, museum officials announced exciting plans to feature Joseph Greer prominently in an upcoming America 250 exhibition, providing an opportunity to share his remarkable story with the public and highlight his contributions to American independence.
Remarkable Preservation Effort
The accompanying book documents an extraordinary preservation project that began in 2018 when volunteers from the Joseph Greer Chapter coordinated efforts to disassemble and relocate the deteriorating house materials. The original structure had suffered significant damage from neglect, insect infestation, and decay.
The recovery effort involved salvaging usable materials including logs and stones, which were then stored securely before reconstruction began in 2024 at Camp Blount Historic Site in Fayetteville, Tennessee. The project required careful archaeological assessments, modern foundation work that maintained historical integrity, and meticulous attention to traditional dogtrot design.
Collaborative Restoration Success
The reconstruction utilized both original materials and carefully sourced replacements, including floors crafted from poplar roof sheeting and oak tongue-and-groove boards. The roof shakes are modern composite materials designed to mimic traditional white oak shakes, addressing the challenge of sourcing authentic period materials.
The completed structure now includes accessibility features complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring the site welcomes all visitors while preserving its historical character.
Historical Significance and Legacy
The project represents a unique collaboration between the Joseph Greer Chapter, Camp Blount Historic Site Association, and the Tennessee State Historic Commission. Together, they have created a lasting repository of architectural heritage that preserves both Lincoln County's and Tennessee's pioneer history.
The book, dedicated to past compatriot Bill Wendt for his preservation efforts, chronicles the entire restoration process through detailed written accounts and compelling photographs provided by project participants.
Museum's Continued Growth
The Tennessee State Museum is currently experiencing significant expansion, moving its collection and curatorial offices to a new collections research and storage facility. This donation marks another milestone in the museum's commitment to preserving and sharing Tennessee's rich historical heritage.
Located at 1000 Rosa L. Parks Blvd. in Nashville, ( https://tnmuseum.org/plan-your-visit) the museum continues to enhance its offerings while ensuring valuable artifacts like the Joseph Greer log segment are preserved for future generations.
For those interested in purchasing "House of the Messenger," proceeds benefit the Sons of the American Revolution. The book is available directly from the printing company at https://www.lulu.com/spotlight/lawsrl
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