Senior Trip to Washington D.C.

Suzanne Pharris, Brenda Barlow, Linda Dudney, Ginger Huff, Deborah Jones, Beverly Halfacre, Rose Netherton, Mattie Frances Cassetty, Johnnie Margaret Hawkins, Rosemary Strong, Helen Anderson, Brenda Williams, Jo Carol Hix, Sara Cassetty, Helen Carol West, Betty Sue Trisdale, Jennie Dycus, Nancy Denton

Ray Jones, Jimmy Gaines, Joyce Birdwell, Pamela Flatt, Helen Wooten, Vicky Goolsby, Alma Roberts, Glenn Chestern (Bus Driver), Mr. Clifford Gentry, Mrs. Gentry, Mr. Wallace Hawkins, Glenda Gentry, Diane Barlow, Carolyn Quarles, Barbara Head, Tammy Brown, Larry Haney

Bruce Hawkins, Jerry Emery, Danny Huffines, Kenny Odom, David Johnson, Danny Bowman, Bennie Sherron, Robert Montgomery, Kenneth Thompson, Don Sadler, Larry McNabb, Bobby Poteet, Larry Flatt, David Barlow, Roger Wiggins, Bill Cassetty, Matthew Raines

The original Cumberland River Bridge on Route 56, a vital connection for the community, was replaced in the 1990s. The new bridge is named in honor of Ben Wade Stone, a member of the Class of 1966, who tragically lost his life just one week after arriving in Vietnam. This memorial serves as a lasting tribute to Ben's sacrifice and the deep respect the community holds for his service. 

🏀 Jackson County Boys Basketball has proudly appeared in the TSSAA State Tournament five times: 2008, 1977, 1968, 1964, and 1956. Each year, the Blue Devils continue to work tirelessly, striving for another chance to compete at the state level. The community supports our team as they pursue their next state tournament appearance! 

Jackson County High School, built in 1939, carries a rich history that reflects the heritage of the community. Located in Jackson County, which was named in honor of President Andrew Jackson—familiarly known as "Old Hickory"—the school embodied his legacy of strength and resilience. Hickory trees were planted around the school as a tribute, and this tradition lives on today through the annual yearbook, which is proudly called "Old Hickory."

The school served the community as Jackson County High School until 1969, after which it transitioned into Fox Middle School, a role it fulfilled until 2000. Today, the building at 707 School Drive is mostly empty, used primarily for storage. The Jackson County Board of Education is also housed within this historic structure, maintaining its connection to education in the community.

John W. Brown was the principal when the Class of 1966 graduated, marking an era of dedication to academic excellence and community spirit that continues to shape the legacy of this building.

The Roxy Theatre was more than just a movie house; it was a beloved gathering place in Gainesboro, owned by Mr. Earl McCallie (state representative) and his wife, Ms. Essie, a dedicated 4th-grade teacher. Every Saturday, children could spend the entire day at the theatre, enjoying movies and fresh popcorn—all for just 25 cents. Although the McCallies had no children of their own, they poured their love and care into creating a welcoming space where local kids could create lasting memories.

The Roxy Theatre was a centerpiece of the community, showing a variety of films that brought Hollywood magic to Gainesboro. The iconic movie "I Walk the Line," filmed in Jackson County, made its way onto the Roxy's screen, delighting local audiences. The theatre also featured films starring legendary actors like Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin, Doris Day, and Rock Hudson. Westerns were a particular favorite, drawing crowds eager for tales of the Wild West. The sci-fi classic "The Cyclops" also graced the Roxy's screen, adding to the diverse lineup of films shown there.

Complete with a balcony that offered a unique viewing experience, the Roxy Theatre left an indelible mark on the community. One of the original theatre signs still exists today, preserved by Benton Quarles, whose brother Thad worked at the theatre as the popcorn vendor.

The Roxy Theatre closed its doors in the early 1960s. Afterward, the building became a doctor's office but was tragically lost in a fire during the 1990s. Today, the land where the Roxy Theatre once stood is owned by the Town of Gainesboro, serving as a silent testament to the cherished history and fond memories it created for generations of local residents.

In Gainesboro and Jackson County, the Poke Sallet plant, also known as Pokeweed, holds a special place in local tradition. As one of the first greens to emerge in the spring, it signals the arrival of a new season. Though the plant is naturally poisonous, it has long been a staple of the spring menu when prepared correctly. Traditionally, Poke Sallet is cooked with scrambled eggs and enjoyed with a side of cornbread, creating a dish that has been cherished by generations.

Every May, the community comes together to celebrate this unique local delicacy at the Poke Sallet Festival—the longest-running festival of its kind. This annual event honors the rich heritage and culinary traditions of Jackson County, making it a must-see for both locals and visitors alike.

The location of First Freedom Bank has a rich history of serving the community. In the 1960s, it was known as Jackson County Bank, a trusted financial institution for local residents. Over time, it evolved into Jackson Bank and Trust, continuing its tradition of providing essential banking services. Today, it stands as The Bull and Thistle Restaurant.

The local hospital once played a crucial role in the community, allowing residents to receive quality medical care without leaving town. The hospital was staffed by four dedicated doctors: Dr. L.R. Dudney, Dr. Jack Johnson, Dr. E.M. Dudney, and Dr. Bill Anderson. This team provided essential healthcare services to the community for many years. However, in the mid-1970s, the hospital closed its doors. Today, the building serves a new purpose as the county jail, but its history as a place of care and healing remains an important part of the community's heritage.

The mascot of Jackson County is the fierce and proud Blue Devil, a symbol of strength and determination. The school colors, royal blue and white, are proudly worn by students and athletes, embodying the spirit and unity of the Jackson County community. Whether on the field, in the classroom, or at events, the Blue Devil and these iconic colors inspire pride and tradition throughout the county.

School Bus Number 4 was driven by Mr. McQue, a respected resident of the Gladdice community. His route took him through the scenic areas of Haydenburg, North Springs, and Whitleyville, connecting students from these communities to their schools. Mr. McHue's dedication to his route made him a familiar and trusted figure for the families along the way.

In the heart of our small town, the 1960s were a time of simple pleasures, strong community bonds, and the iconic Chevy truck that became a symbol of freedom and independence for high school students. The roar of a V8 engine and the sight of a well-polished Chevy rolling down Main Street are memories that many of us still cherish today.

Back then, a Chevy truck wasn’t just a vehicle—it was a rite of passage. Whether it was a 1960 C10 with its classic “eyebrow” headlights or a later model with the sleek Fleetside bed, these trucks were the ultimate expression of style and practicality. They were the workhorses of the farm during the week and the prized rides for cruising on Saturday nights.

The bed of a Chevy truck was often the gathering spot for friends after football games, piled high with blankets as we watched the stars or shared a late-night snack from the local drive-in. Those trucks carried more than just hay or tools—they carried memories of summer jobs, first dates, and the feeling of wind in your hair as you drove with the windows down, radio blaring the latest hits.

For many of us, our first taste of independence came behind the wheel of a Chevy truck. It was more than just transportation; it was a trusted companion through the twists and turns of teenage life. The sturdy design, the rumble of the engine, and the smell of aged leather seats are sensations that bring back the spirit of the 60s—when life was a little slower, and every drive felt like an adventure.

As we look back, those old Chevy trucks remind us of a time when the town was smaller, the community tighter, and our dreams as big as the open road. The truck, like our high school days, is a reminder of the way we were—full of hope, excitement, and the promise of what lay beyond the horizon.

Located at the corner of W Hull Ave and N Union St, the Draper and Naff Store was once a bustling department and hardware store, offering the finest in men's clothing, including hats and shoes. This iconic store was a cornerstone of the community, where locals could find quality goods and enjoy a friendly atmosphere. Today, the site is an empty lot used for parking at the Exchange, a quiet reminder of the store's rich history.

The Draper and Naff families also played a significant role in the community through their ownership of the Draper-Naff Funeral Home, located at the corner of S Main St and E Maple Ave. The funeral home served the community for many years with care and compassion. Today, the site has been transformed into a beautiful, flat grassy lot owned by the Gainesboro Church of Christ, offering a serene space that continues to serve the community in a new way.

A high school student proudly owned a sleek black and white 1957 Ford 300 Custom 2-door hardtop. This classic car was the envy of many he cruised around town making memories that would last a lifetime. 

WLIV 920/101.9 radio station had its beginnings in Gainesboro, serving as a vital link for listeners in both Gainesboro and Livingston. The station became well-known for its broadcasts of football and basketball games, with Drew Huffins and Lee Sadler Quarles as the familiar voices behind the microphone. The station was originally located on the south side of the courthouse on N Gore Ave.

Drew's brother, Danny Huffins, is a proud member of the Class of 1966, adding a personal connection to the station's history. Eventually, Ruben McCoin purchased WLIV and relocated it to Livingston, TN, where it continues to broadcast today, maintaining its legacy in the region.

McCawley Motor Company, originally owned by Ralph and John McCawley, was a cornerstone of the local automotive industry. The business was expertly managed by Donnie Johnson, with skilled mechanics Earl Braswell and Brownie Jones keeping vehicles in top shape. The motor company eventually changed hands when Major Quarles purchased it, but it proudly retained the McCawley Motor Company name.

Today, the building that once housed this iconic business is home to Roaring River Distillery, carrying forward the legacy of local enterprise in a new and exciting way.

In the 1960s, the local economy was deeply rooted in the cultivation of burley tobacco. Many in the community have vivid memories of long, hard summers and falls spent working in the tobacco fields. For countless boys and men, these fields were a rite of passage, where they learned the value of hard work. The tobacco plant played a vital role in the area's livelihood, serving many purposes and shaping the way of life for generations. 

Founded in 1951, Twin Lakes began by providing telephone service to the residents of Gainesboro, TN. Their first office was located on the second floor of the Shamrock Hotel, with Mr. Sam Anderson serving as the company’s first male employee. Ms. Doris Dudney and Catherine Galbraith were the first female employees, playing key roles in the company's early days. Notably, Mr. Mark Dudney on Freestate was the first person to receive a Twin Lakes telephone line, marking the beginning of a new era in communication for the area. 

Over the years, Twin Lakes has grown significantly, becoming a cornerstone of the community and supporting numerous local jobs. Their services have expanded far beyond Gainesboro, now reaching Baxter, Byrdstown, Celina, Chestnut Mound, Clarkrange, Cookeville South, Crawford, Granville, Highland, Jamestown, Livingston, Moss, North Springs, and Rickman. Today, Twin Lakes provides broadband, TV, security, and phone services, with Gainesboro proudly offering fiber internet throughout the area.

School Drive-In, owned by Marlin Goolsby, was a beloved hangout in the 1960s. It was the go-to spot for kids who could leave school for lunch, gathering at Marlin's to enjoy delicious burgers and fries. The drive-in became a central part of daily life, creating lasting memories for a generation. 

Nick Gulas, renowned for hosting wrestling at the Hippodrome in Nashville, TN, brought the excitement of the sport to Gainesboro with the help of the local Lion's Club. The high school gym would be packed 2-3 Saturdays a year, filled with cheering fans eager to see the action up close. The "Fargo Brothers" were a particular favorite, drawing enthusiastic support from the local crowd.