The Maddux community was established in the 1840s following Cherokee Removal. From 1936 to 1940, residents of Maddux, as well as Harrison, were forced to leave their communities behind as the Tennessee River was expected to flood their homes and farms. There are few reminders that there were once vibrant communities here, dotting the beautifully constructed "natural" landscape. Today, the Maddux Cemetery is still being maintained within Harrison Bay State Park.
With death as prevalent as it was in the 19th century, some of the oldest graves were for those who died shortly after the community put down roots. For nearly 100 years, people were laid to rest here, but during the tour we will be unearthing some of their stories.
The cemetery is located at the end of the road at Bear Trace Golf Course. The tour will begin at the gates of Maddux Cemetery. To access the cemetery, you will need to stay on the road once entering Bear Trace. It is a small unpaved road that leads up to the cemetery.
Please note: Maddux Cemetery is not accessible to wheelchairs. If you would like to participate in the tour and use a chair, there are 2 all-terrain wheelchairs available to reserve for free. Please contact the program leader to reserve one.
Program Host: Dani OBrien
Contact Email: danielle.obrien@tn.gov
Contact Phone: 9312247652
Meeting Place: Maddux Cemetery at Bear Trace
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