Smyrna Real Estate > Smyrna Community Info

History

The railway served an important role in the history of early Smyrna, which acted as a refueling station for the many westbound trains. Tracts of land were offered for sale around the train depot and many people settled there. The town was incorporated in 1869. Agriculture became the primary industry after the decline of the railroad until Sewart Air Force Base was built in 1941.

During the 1950s and 1960s more than 10,000 people were stationed on the base; when it closed, the community had to find a new job source. Private industry surged, the Smyrna/Rutherford County Airport Authority improved airport operation and facilities and another historic milestone was born - Percy Priest Lake. Located close to Smyrna, the lake has become a tremendous supply of quality water to the area and the home of a variety of recreational opportunities.

Recreation

Percy Priest Lake is an exciting destination for boating, water skiing and swimming. The Smyrna Parks and Recreation Department offers many verdant parks, such as Volunteer, Todd Lane, Pioneer, Old Rock School and Sharp Springs. The Smyrna Municipal Golf Course is owned by the town and offers a challenging 18-hole regulation course with an 8,000-square foot putting green, driving range, practice bunker and pitching green.