Giles County, TN, History & Genealogy

04/30/2026

Here is a helpful chart to assist you when you are researching the homes where your ancestors lived.

04/28/2026

I don't know these folks, but this is my kind of tombstone!~

04/15/2026

Celebrate America250 with a trip to the founding of the USA when STAAR Theatre at Antoinette Hall brings history to life this May with its production of "1776 America’s Prize-Winning Musical," a compelling and often humorous musical that captures the moments leading up to the writing and signing of America’s Declaration of Independence.
Blending sharp wit, emotional depth and a memorable score, "1776" offers audiences an engaging look at the challenges behind one of the most significant decisions in American history. Blazing to vivid life in one of Broadway’s most unconventional hits, the production puts a human face on the pages of history as audiences see the men behind the national icons – proud, frightened, uncertain, irritable, charming, often petty and ultimately noble figures determined to do the right thing for a fledgling nation.
Evening performances are scheduled for May 1, 2, 8 and 9 at 7 p.m. Sunday matinees are scheduled for May 3 and 10 at 2 p.m. Doors open 30 minutes prior to curtain. All performances will take place at STAAR Theatre at Antoinette Hall, 105 N. First St., Pulaski. Parental guidance is suggested due to mild language and light b***y humor.
Directed by Tammy and Stan Pierchoski, "1776" follows John Adams of Massachusetts, Benjamin Franklin of Pennsylvania and Thomas Jefferson of Virginia as they work to persuade the Second Continental Congress to vote for independence from Great Britain. As debates intensify, personal convictions, political pressures and regional differences collide in a story that is as timely as it is historic.
"We are delighted to begin this 250-year celebration of American independence right here at STAAR Theatre on our stunning historic downtown square,” said Tammy Pierchoski, STAAR’s executive director. “Local theatre brings us together – it creates a sense of belonging and fuels our community’s creativity. We invite you to be a part of the magic and make 2026 the year you discover that this hometown theatre has much to offer by way of heart and true talent."
With vocal direction by Holly Aldridge and choreography by Mary Ann Trimble, the production features a talented cast of local and regional performers supported by a dedicated production team.
"1776" is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International. All authorized performance materials also are supplied by Music Theatre International. www.mtishows.com
Tickets are available now at staartheatre.org/tickets. Tickets are $18 to $28. The production has a run time of approximately 150 minutes. Comfortable tiered seating and concessions are available for all performances.
“This show is expected to sell out, as many groups already have called to attend,” said Pierchoski.
For more information about STAAR Theatre and upcoming productions, events and summer classes, visit staartheatre.org.
Photo: Adam Casey

04/13/2026

This sweet little lady is said to have killed an enemy soldier during the Civil War. How did she do it? The answer will give you new respect for a humble kitchen utensil.

William M. Kimbrough and Sarah Dearing Kimbrough were newlyweds when the Civil War broke out. He was 27 and she was but 17, and they had married less than two months before the war began. They lived just across the county line, on the Giles County side of Weakley Creek Road.

Bill, as he was known, volunteered for service in the Confederate army in 1862, and served for two years in the 32nd Tennessee Infantry, until his capture in the summer of 1864.

One day while he was away during the War, as the family story goes, a Union soldier forced his way into Sarah’s kitchen. Thinking fast, Sarah grabbed the first thing she had available to defend herself: a rolling pin, which she then used to beat the man to death.

Whether it is true or not, this family legend underscores the great dangers faced by many women during the Civil War.

02/03/2026

One of page members has asked for help with her ancestor, Uriah Bell, born in Giles County, TN, in 1823. She provided a clipping in which he told his life story when he was 100. I have added some other information for her to review. If you know of any people connected with this gentleman whose descendants may still be in Giles County, she would like to know. It appears that Dr. Bell moved to Texas as a young man.

01/19/2026

STAAR Theatre seeks strong male turnout for patriotic production of 1776
As the nation prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, STAAR Theatre is calling on men and boys to take part in a landmark theatrical event. Auditions for the musical 1776 will be held the first week of February, with performances scheduled for the first two weeks of May.
Featuring a cast of 27 men and only two women, 1776 offers an exceptional opportunity for male performers ages 13 through adult. The production includes both singing and non-singing roles, making it accessible to experienced performers as well as newcomers interested in being part of a historic celebration on stage.
Set in the summer of 1776, the musical follows John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson as they struggle to unite the Second Continental Congress and secure a vote for independence from Great Britain. Known for its wit, powerful storytelling and legendary score, 1776 brings the birth of the nation to life with humor, heart and historical insight.
“Having enough men audition is critical to the success of this production,” said STAAR Theatre Manager Rosalyn Craft. “This is a rare chance to portray the founders of our country in a meaningful way during a milestone year in American history.”
Auditions will be held Thursday, February 5, beginning at 6 p.m., and Saturday, February 7, beginning at 2 p.m., at STAAR Theatre, 105 N. First St. in Pulaski. Auditioners should choose one date and plan to stay for the full session, which will include individual auditions followed by group readings.
Participants should prepare a 60-second monologue from the script and a solo from the show, using either piano accompaniment or rehearsal tracks. Audition materials and a complete character list with descriptions are available at staartheatre.org/1776-auditions.
Rehearsals will be held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 – 8:30 p.m., with not all cast members called to every rehearsal. Performances are scheduled for May 1 – 3 and May 8 – 10, with a holdover date of Saturday, May 16.
Production fees are $50 for the first participant with a $75 family cap. Full and partial scholarships are available. The production is co-directed by Stan and Tammy Pierchoski, with vocal direction by Holly Aldridge.
For more information and a full character list, visit https://staartheatre.org/1776-auditions/ or call 931-371-0955.

Auditions for 1776 this February 250 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence, STAAR Theatre presents the musical 1776! Auditions will be held the first week of February and performances will be held the first two weeks of May. Comprising of 27 men and only 2 women, this show provi...

01/15/2026

01/15/2026

12/01/2025

One of our page members is searching for photos of Otis Webster Black Sr. He was born in Pulaski, Giles County, Tennessee, in 1898. As a child he shows up in Giles County in District 5.

11/12/2025

Maplewood Cemetery in Pulaski has several hundred graves that indicate that the person was a veteran. Of course, some could be buried there with nothing to indicate that. Here is the link:

The World’s largest gravesite collection. Contribute, create and discover gravesites from all over the world. Memorials in Maplewood Cemetery, a Find a Grave.

11/10/2025

Does anyone have information about the accessibility to this cemetery? We have a member of this page who is interested in visiting, and he does not want to trespass. Who is the contact for this property?

Find 123 memorial records at the Evans-Angus Cemetery cemetery in , Tennessee. Add a memorial, flowers or photo.

10/07/2025

Former Giles County Sheriff Red Newton was recognized by the Giles County Commission by having a bridge named in his honor. The proclamation attached here describes his contributions to the county and speaks of his commitment to the safety and protection of the citizens he served.