Historic Mansker's Station — Attraction in Goodlettsville

We arrived just after they reopened from their one hour lunch break at 1:00 and discovered, much to our delight, that we had the place to ourselves. Upon our entrance to the fort, we were met by a burley mountain of a man who was enthusiastic not only about the fact that we were homeschoolers (“they ask the best questions,” he said), but about his historical knowledge. Like a pot of well warmed soup, he bubbled over with bits of information and interesting tidbits while showing us around. Any questions we asked were met with a knowledgeable answer.

About 1/2 way through our tour we met a second guide who continued our deluge of learning. This time we received an education and demonstration of the importance of the local blacksmith.

Switching back to our initial guide, we were invited into the woodworking shop for a demonstration of his lathe and shave horse skills while explaining details of his craft and tools. The kids were invited to partake in some of the activities (sans sharp objects).

Next we were escorted into the nearby 200-year-old Bowen Plantation home (the longest standing brick structure in middle Tennessee) and given a tour and explanations of various antique medical equipment (because the home was at one time owned by a doctor). In addition, we were given a demonstration of various textile machines for the development of fabric from hemp, cotton and wool. It was also here that we saw our first cotton plants in bloom and had the chance to attempt seed removal by hand (think cotton wrapped around velcro). The afternoon was a plethora of one-on-one experiential learning.

Overall our experience was fantastic. I could not have asked for a better value for the time, knowledge and expertise demonstrated through their patient staff. I’d highly recommend stopping by for a visit should you find yourself in the area, you won’t be disappointed.

Travel details: -Nearby: Mansker’s Station is located adjacent to a park which we intended to visit but ran out of time. This would be a great place to eat if you happen to come during the 12-1 hour that they are closed or just to let your kids burn off some energy. -Parking: easy. We were able to park both our van, truck and 40′ RV without a problem using the park loop driveway which has designated parking areas throughout. Exiting was also easy due to the loop design. -Time to tour: Some may be able to tour this place in 1-2 hours, but that would require moving much quicker than we did. We were there for at least 3 hours–I guess we ask good questions ;). -Prices: $8 for adults (which begins at age 13-super lame in my opinion) and $4 for kids ages 6-11. For some reason I could not find any pricing info online before we arrived so I was thankful to see that they were so affordable. There are AAA, senior and military discounts. -Hours: They are open weekdays from 8:00-4:30 with the last tour...

It is located at Moss Wright Park and I grew up in a subdivision a half mile away. I spent alot of time at the park going to baseball games 1st to watch my younger brother play, then my son, and most recently my nephew, who with his twin sister, will be 10 this weekend. Happy birthday Maddax & Emmy! It's a beautiful park with walking trail, baseball, soccer & footbalk fields. There is the visitor center, the replica of Mansker's Fort, who 1st settled in this area on the banks of Madison Creek and also, the oldest brick house in Tennessee is on park grounds. There is a large playground, picnic pavillions for rent and a dog park. I was there today for the weekly farmer's market and the homegrown tomatoes are outstanding. Wish i had...

Manskers station and Bowen house are terrific! The station includes demonstrations of the skills and craft of the period. It's not as balanced an interpretation as you might get elsewhere (i.e no mention of enslaved, little mention of native people), but it is very immersive in the experience of the early settlers. The tour is great and our guide's knowledge was impressive. They continue to practice much of the agriculture and craft of the era and explain it in detail. The Bowen house is interesting and includes a neat collection of medical technology of the era and information about an early cholera epidemic. Fascinating local history (connections to...