Green Hills, TN is a beautiful and affluent community that is located just south of downtown Nashville. Though the area is known for its upscale shopping, dining, and living, many people don’t know the fascinating history that lies beneath the surface. From famous residents to scandalous happenings, the story of Green Hills is full of surprises. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most intriguing tales from the history of Green Hills.
The First Mansion
Green Hills is known for its beautiful homes, but the first mansion in the area is perhaps the most impressive. The Seven Springs Estate was built in the 1850s and was home to a wealthy plantation owner. The mansion was designed in a Greek Revival style and boasted over 20 rooms. Today, the mansion is long gone, but the property still serves as a reminder of Green Hills’ elegant past.
The Scandalous Realtor
In the 1960s, Green Hills was a neighborhood on the rise. Real estate agents were eager to sell the new homes going up in the area, but one realtor went too far. Herb Keener, a famous real estate agent, was found guilty of embezzlement and fraud. His scandal rocked the community, and many people were left wondering who they could trust.
Nashville’s First Shopping Center
Green Hills is known for its upscale shopping, but did you know that the area was home to Nashville’s first shopping center? The Green Hills Shopping Center was opened in 1954 and was considered cutting-edge at the time. Today, the shopping center is still going strong and is perhaps the most famous feature of the Green Hills area.
The Home of Hank Williams Jr.
Green Hills has been home to many famous residents over the years, but none are more famous than Hank Williams Jr. The country music star lived in Green Hills for several years in the early 1980s and his home is still a landmark of the area. Visitors can even take a peek at the house from the street.
The Ultimate Christmas Light Display
Each year, the residents of Green Hills put on one of the most impressive Christmas light displays in the region. Known as “The Gotta-Do,” the light display features thousands of lights and is a true showcase of the neighborhood’s holiday spirit. Visitors come from all over Nashville to see the display, and it’s a beloved tradition in the Green Hills community.
Green Hills may be known for its high-end shopping and dining, but the history of the area is just as fascinating as the present. From the first mansion to the ultimate Christmas light display, the stories of Green Hills are full of surprises. Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor to the area, taking a deeper dive into the history of Green Hills is a must-do. So next time you’re grabbing coffee or browsing the shops in the area, take a moment to learn about the fascinating past that lies beneath.
