Rutherford County, Tennessee

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Rutherford County, Tennessee is a county located in the central part of the U.S. state of Tennessee. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 341,486, making it one of the fastest-growing counties in the state. The county seat is Murfreesboro, which is also the geographic center of Tennessee.

History

Rutherford County was established on October 25, 1803, and was named in honor of Griffith Rutherford, a Revolutionary War general and a prominent political figure in North Carolina. The county has a rich history, including significant events during the American Civil War, such as the Battle of Stones River.

Geography

Rutherford County covers an area of approximately 624 square miles (1,620 km²), of which 619 square miles (1,600 km²) is land and 5.2 square miles (13 km²) is water. The county is part of the Nashville metropolitan area and is bordered by Davidson County to the northwest, Wilson County to the north, Cannon County to the east, Coffee County to the southeast, Bedford County to the south, and Williamson County to the west.

Demographics

According to the 2020 Census, Rutherford County has a diverse population with a mix of urban and rural communities. The county has experienced significant population growth due to its proximity to Nashville and its appeal as a residential area.

Economy

The economy of Rutherford County is diverse, with significant contributions from education, healthcare, manufacturing, and retail sectors. The presence of Middle Tennessee State University in Murfreesboro is a major economic driver, providing employment and educational opportunities.

Education

Rutherford County is served by the Rutherford County Schools district, which operates numerous elementary, middle, and high schools. Higher education institutions in the county include Middle Tennessee State University and Motlow State Community College.

Transportation

Rutherford County is well-connected by major highways, including Interstate 24, which runs through the county, providing access to Nashville and Chattanooga. The county also has a public transportation system operated by the Rover Bus System.

Communities

Cities

• Murfreesboro
• Smyrna
• La Vergne

Towns

• Eagleville

Unincorporated communities

• Christiana
• Lascassas
• Rockvale

Notable People

• James M. Buchanan, Nobel Prize-winning economist
• Mary Noailles Murfree, author

See also

• List of counties in Tennessee
• National Register of Historic Places listings in Rutherford County, Tennessee
• Battle of Stones River

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