Brentwood's history begins with early Mississippian Culture inhabitants and later Revolutionary War settlers like the Sneed, Moore, and Crockett families. Devastated during the Civil War, Brentwood recovered as post-war plantations transitioned to farms and later, equestrian estates. With its 1969 incorporation and the construction of I-65, Brentwood evolved into a suburban retreat, maintaining its exclusivity by enforcing low-density zoning. Today, Brentwood is home to affluent residents and features many national and high-end shops, while preserving its small-town charm.

 

Rural Fairview sits on the far western edge of Williamson County and back in the day was known as the moonshine capital of middle Tennessee. Today, Fairview is home to 722-acre Bowie Nature Park, one of the largest city-managed parks in the state. Like all of Williamson County, the area has seen rapid growth in recent years. In addition to new housing developments, Fairview is also attracting enterprising merchants and restaurateurs with unique, destination-worthy offerings. 

Founded in 1799 and named after Benjamin Franklin, Franklin has a rich history, highlighted by the 1864 Battle of Franklin during the Civil War. The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 spurred efforts to protect its heritage. Now a thriving suburban city, Franklin combines historic charm with modern growth, hosting corporate headquarters like Nissan and Tractor Supply, while maintaining vibrant cultural events like the Pilgrimage Festival. Franklin’s historic Main Street remains a focal point, earning it the title of “America’s Favorite Main Street.” 

 

Located in the rolling hills of western Williamson County, Leiper’s Fork offers a blend of rural charm and artistic flair. Established in the early 1800s as a farming community, Leiper’s Fork is known for its thriving arts scene, with galleries, live music venues, and annual festivals attracting visitors from all over the world. Despite modern growth, the village maintains its small-town vibe with historic homes, locally-owned businesses and a close-knit community. As a shining example of a preserved rural village, Leiper’s Fork has gained national attention, serving as a model for other small towns across the country striving to balance growth with heritage and community spirit. 

 

Nolensville was established in 1797 by Revolutionary War Veteran William Nolen, who was passing through the area with his wife and five children when their wagon wheel broke. By the 1920s, Nolensville became a premier producer of dairy products in the area. The Nolensville Co-Op Creamery, which operated from 1921 to 1957, was well-known for their exceptional quality butter. Today, Nolensville is a booming rural suburb and will welcome a Kroger and a Publix in 2025. Little League teams from Nolensville have participated in the 2021, 2022 and 2023 Little League World Series.

 

The Battle of Spring Hill in 1864 marked the town’s Civil War history, but it wasn’t until the 1990s, with the arrival of Saturn Corporation, that Spring Hill saw significant growth. The plant, now owned by GM and LG Energy Solutions, drives the local economy. Rapid development continues, with companies like Ryder and Goodwill expanding operations. Today, Spring Hill offers a blend of historic significance, modern industry and suburban growth. 

 

Founded in 1866 with the arrival of the railroad, Thompson’s Station was named after Dr. Elijah Thompson. Known for the Battle of Thompson’s Station during the Civil War, the town officially incorporated in 1990. It retains its rural charm, with rolling hills and scenic views, while promoting responsible growth through careful zoning and low-density regulations. Thompson’s Station balances development with environmental preservation, ensuring its pastoral character remains intact.