Home of Civil War Hero Sam Davis in Smyrna, Tennessee

The Sam Davis Home in Smyrna, Tennessee is a unique Civil War attraction. It recognizes the bravery and loyalty shown by Confederate soldier Sam Davis in the face of Union officers and ensuing court marshal hearings.

Sam Davis was from a upper middle class family. Two very different claims were made about him. According to his statements and the Confederate military, Sam Davis was nothing more than a scout during the Civil War.

His job was to work behind enemy lines to disrupt their communications. As a member of "Coleman's Scouts" he would gather intelligence on troop movements or whatever other information they could glean.

Officials with the Union army saw things a bit differently. To them, Sam Davis was a spy who would potentially give details would certainly be used against them during the Civil War.

When he was captured by federal forces he was found with important documentation on movements. There was also information that seemed to come from the desk of a Union General Grenville Dodge.

Sam Davis was brought to General Dodge. When the general saw the information he became stoutly convinced (perhaps rightfully so) that one of his own was acting as a spy for the Confederate forces.

The general demanded that Sam Davis reveal where he got the information. The choice was simple. Either give up the name of the informant or face a court martial that would end in certain death.

Even though he was convicted in court martial of being a mail courier and a spy he refused to name the person who gave him the information. Famously, he said "I would die a thousand deaths before I would betray a friend."

Union officials carried out their promise. Sam Davis was executed by hanging.

Visitors can tour his home in Smyrna, Tennessee. It has been kept or restored to the time when Sam Davis lived in the home. Visitors will get a good look at life during the Civil War.

There are more than 100 heirlooms and family pieces to be seen. All of these belonged to the family at one time or another. The home itself was built around 1910 by a previous owner. Extensive renovations were done in the 1850s that make the home what you see today.

In 1927 the site was purchased by the State of Tennessee. At the time the site was a working cotton plantation. In fact, cotton is still grown on the 160 acre property.

An admission fee is charged to tour the historic home and grounds. Special events are scheduled regularly. Admission prices vary by event and by season. Visitors are encouraged to view the website for the current pricing structure and event schedule.
For more information contact:
Sam Davis Home
1399 Sam Davis Rd.
Smyrna, TN 37167
Phone: 615.459.2341

Source:
Sam Davis Home
State of Tennessee
Sources:
Sam Davis Home
Tennessee Division, Sons of the Confederacy