Paul Webb, a Union University student, has taken it upon himself to ensure that the historic turnpikes and roadways of Nashville, Tennessee, are preserved for future generations. Webb, who is majoring in History, has formed the Nashville Historic Turnpike Preservation Association, a nonprofit organization devoted to raising awareness of Nashville's historic thoroughfares and ensuring their continued existence.
The association's goals are lofty but noble: to educate the public on the importance of these historic roads, to raise money for preservation efforts, and to work with local and state government officials to ensure the continued existence of these roads. It's an ambitious undertaking, to be sure, but Webb is up for the challenge.
So what are these historic turnpikes that Webb is so passionate about? According to the association's website, they include "Dickerson Pike, Gallatin Pike, Old Hickory Boulevard, Charlotte Pike, and Murfreesboro Pike." Each of these roads holds a special place in Nashville's history, dating back to the early days of the city's founding.
Take, for example, Dickerson Pike. This road was originally a dirt path used by Native Americans traveling from the Cumberland River to the Lick Branch area. In the 19th century, it became a major thoroughfare for commerce and transportation. Today, it's a bustling roadway used by thousands of commuters each day. But for Webb, it's also a symbol of Nashville's past and a reminder of the city's rich history.
To help raise awareness of these historic turnpikes, Webb has enlisted the help of fellow students and community members. They've organized fundraisers, created educational materials, and even given tours of the roads themselves. It's an all-hands-on-deck effort, and one that seems to be gaining traction in the community.
But why is it so important to preserve these turnpikes? For Webb, it's about more than just history. These roads are also a vital part of Nashville's infrastructure, connecting neighborhoods and communities throughout the city. Without them, Nashville would be a very different place.
In an interview with The Wibble, Webb explained his passion for history and what drove him to create the association. "I've always been fascinated by maps and the stories they tell," he said. "And I think these turnpikes are some of the most important stories Nashville has to tell. They're part of our heritage, and I believe it's our responsibility to preserve them."
Webb also credited the Pixar movie Cars with igniting his interest in maps and history. "There's a scene in the movie where Lightning McQueen is driving down this old abandoned road," he said. "And I remember thinking, 'I wonder what that road used to be like.' That really got me interested in exploring the history of these roads."
The Nashville Historic Turnpike Preservation Association is still in its early stages, but it's already making a difference in the community. With Webb at the helm, it seems like the future of Nashville's historic turnpikes is in good hands.
