ABOUT
Welcome, we’re your gateway to all things Hartsville. Our mission is to showcase the charm, history, and opportunities that make Hartsville a unique destination for visitors and a thriving community for residents. Learn more about our town’s rich heritage, the people who make it special, and how we’re working to build a brighter future for everyone in Hartsville.
The Hartsville Trousdale County Chamber of Commerce traces its roots back to 1982, when the Trousdale County Rural Area Development Committee recognized the need for a more active community organization. The committee believed that a dedicated Chamber of Commerce would benefit city and county governments, local businesses, industries, and civic groups. With overwhelming support—90% of surveyed residents and businesses agreed—a local Chamber was essential.
By June 1983, officers were elected, and 56 charter members officially formed the Hartsville Trousdale County Chamber of Commerce.
Today, the Chamber serves as a vital resource, handling inquiries, promoting local businesses, organizing community events, marketing our town as a destination, and supporting both city and county government initiatives.
Trousdale County, the smallest in Tennessee, covers just 117 square miles (75,000 acres) yet is home to over 8,000 residents. Hartsville, the county seat, plays a central role in its history and community life.
The first settlers arrived in 1797, with James Hart’s family settling along the west bank of the West Fork of Goose Creek and Charles Donoho’s family on the east bank of Goose Creek. James Hart established Hart’s Ferry on the Cumberland River, and by 1817, Hartsville was officially recognized as a town. Meanwhile, Donoho’s Mill, located on the east bank of Goose Creek, became known as Damascus. In 1840, Damascus merged with Hartsville when the city was officially incorporated.
Trousdale County was created from portions of Macon, Smith, Sumner, and Wilson counties. In 1870, state law required that a horse and rider must be able to travel to the county seat and return home within a day. The challenging terrain of the area made the formation of a new county necessary. Known as Hartsville Trousdale County, it shares a consolidated “metro” government with the city of Hartsville.
The county is predominantly rural, characterized by farming and livestock, and boasts a highly ranked school system, a championship football team, and a charming historic square near the scenic Cumberland River.