Due West Hideaways, Tennessee

Temperance Hall grew up around a mill built on Smith Fork Creek in the early 19th
century. This mill received its power from the harnessed waters of Smith Fork Creek. This was done by the use of a dam across the stream which forced the water over an enormous turbine wheel, thereby transmitting power to any portion of the plant that was in need of power for its operation. The variety and quality of its product was proof of the art and skill of the builder, Samuel Caplinger, who was reported to have bought the future site of Temperance Hall for as little as 25 cents an acre under a land grant from Governor Carroll. Mr. Caplinger was said to be the owner of seven mills on Smith Fork and one on Dry Creek along with 2400 acres of land. When the mill, which was built with slave labor, was completed, Mr. Caplinger built a house nearby.

 
The men located around Temperance Hall in the early 19th century were men of great influence and perseverance. When Nicholas Smith bought the Caplinger house, there were strong feelings against alcohol among the area’s
pioneers and they formed a temperance society. This society was dedicated to promoting moderation and, more often, complete abstinence in the use of intoxicating liquor. They became known as the “Sons of Temperance.” Nicholas
Smith, a member, allowed the society to meet in a large room on the second floor
of his house. The society later moved to the hotel which contained a large hall
upstairs. There was an instance associated with this large upper room where people assembled to hear lectures on temperance. As the meetings continued, this long room became know as “Temperance Hall,” thus, becoming the name of the town. This Hotel still stands today and sits directly across the street from the church building.

 
Temperance Hall has always been a quiet, religious community, in no small part due to the “Sons of Temperance.” The church has always played an important part in the lives of the citizens of the Hall. The first church building in the community was the Mt. Zion Baptist Church (located 2 miles south of Temperance Hall); it was established June 30, 1851. The Methodist Church (located in the town square) was established in 1873. The Temperance Hall Methodist Church (African Branch) was established by local African Americans in 1880 and disbanded in 1956. The Church of Christ was established in 1904.

Learn more about this land:

Camp next to a piece of history, only 3 miles to Center Hill Lake!

This property features a beautiful church that was built in 1888. Originally named Temperance Hall, this old Methodist church still stands in only slightly weathered glory. Ideally located only 3 miles from Center Hill Marina this camping spot is the perfect getaway. Your site is situated 7 miles from the famous Caney Fork River with easy access. A  paddlers dream location! Just a few miles more and you will find Burgess Falls and Edgar Evans State Park.

Center Hill Lake stretches 64 miles up from the Caney Fork River, where visitors come to enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing and water sports. The 415 miles of forested shoreline around the lake provides excellent hiking, hunting, and exploring. There is parking available if you would like to bring a boat. Boat parking must be booked in advance and there is a small additional fee required.

Your campsite is just over an hour outside of Nashville so you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Wake up in the morning to a songbirds call and then enjoy some live entertainment at night in "Music City".

Well behaved pets are always welcome!

A new Camp host is needed. If interested after your stay, please inquire.